Note: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised the following article contains the name and image of an Indigenous person who has died.

Tributes have flowed for Dr Aunty Patsy Cameron, who has passed away aged 79.

An esteemed and beloved Tasmanian Aboriginal Elder, Aunty Patsy was known for her decades of advocacy for Indigenous people.

After growing up on Flinders Island, Aunty Patsy went on to have a significant impact on Aboriginal education throughout Tasmania.

She became the first Tasmanian to be appointed to the National Aboriginal Education Committee, and was pivotal in the establishment of the University of Tasmania's Aboriginal studies course as well as the Riawunna Centre for Aboriginal Education.

Aunty Patsy's son, Nick, said his mother created a legacy that spanned the majority of her life.

"We've learnt a lot from her over the years, especially the way she went about researching information," Mr Cameron said, the ABC reports.

"She was very passionate about making sure what was written or what was said was accurate.

"She was very much about trying to tell the truth and instilled that in all of us who listened to her and grew up with her.

"It's a big loss and people need to remember who she was and what she represented. She had a real hope of our history being recognised ... of a breakdown of racism."

Aunty Patsy also preserved Tasmanian Indigenous culture as a published author, writing numerous children's books detailing Tasmania's Aboriginal history.

Melaythenner Teeackana Warrana Aboriginal Corporation (MTWAC), of which she was a founding member, said Aunty Patsy " dedicated her life to ensuring that Tasmanian Aboriginal people always felt proud of our culture, history and heritage".

"She was a passionate advocate for Country, language and our communities growing healthy together," MTWAC said.

They said as an Elder, Aunty Patsy "would teach culture in Country".

"She walked our beaches, mountains and towns with a long line of Tasmanian Aboriginal people in tow, sharing precious cultural knowledge and histories in place," MTWAC said.

"She was generous in also sharing our heritage with all guests on Country, whether local or international, and her friendships span countries, generations and cultures."

Aunty Patsy was recognised with an Order of Australia in 2017 for her service to improving educational outcomes for Indigenous people and as a custodian of cultural knowledge.

Following her passing, Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff said Aunty Patsy's lifelong commitment to education, culture and community leaves an enduring legacy.

"Aunty Patsy's passing will be felt across Tasmania," Mr Rockliff said.

"Her dedication to improving educational opportunities for Tasmanian Aboriginal people, preserving culture and sharing her knowledge has touched countless lives.

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to Aunty Patsy's family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her."

Greens leader Rosalie Woodruff said Aunty Patsy "led a remarkable life characterised by a consistent advocacy for her people".

"Her warmth, openness and sparkling spirit made her beloved by many fortunate to have known her," Ms Woodruff said.