From link: http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gBy7pK1U-kIvTHx4PYeiI8rqBkmg

The Wheel of Time turns, but Robert Jordan has fallen under the Shadow.

I know many people will be very sad to hear this news.  I had never read a fantasy novel until I came across "The Eye of the World" several years ago.  I read the 2 books after that and stopped.  Not because it was bad, it was that I took so much time in between reading that when I went back to it I had a hard time keeping up with all the characters and trying to remember who was who.  But other than that these were very well written books.  I imagine fans of the series will be sorry to hear the next book will be the last.

Incredibly saddened by this news.
Through his books I came to appreciate the Fantasy genre, he was the spark that began a fire I enjoy to this day. Condolences and best wishes to his family, friends and readers at this time.
His words touched a great many lives.

According to LOCUS magazine, Brandon Sanderson has been selected to complete Robert Jordan's unfinished final novel in the WOT series, "A Memory of Light". His widow  (who edited the other books in the series) chose Sanderson based on past works.

Apparently, however, he's got plenty to work with. Jordan had already written scenes and has notes and even voice recordings. And he shared with relatives how the series is intended to end.

That is very good news. I know many in the Jordan world that will enjoy hearing a selection has been made to complete the final book.

I just found out today, there is a tentative release date for Nov. 2009. For those interested in keeping tabs ... http://www.dragonmount.com/main.php

Here's an funny tidbit.  The last book is being split into 3.  How's that for a dramatic walk into the sunset.  I'm sure the publisher doesn't mind it either.  But still...whoever hear of making the last book of a successful series into a trilogy?.