Aretha Franklin has died at the age of 76. The Detroit native had been ‘gravely ill’ for several days, and died surrounded by friends and family, who asked for prayers. Today, her publicist confirmed that the legend died at her home in Detroit on Thursday. A statement read: ‘Franklin’s official cause of death was due to advance pancreatic cancer of the neuroendocrine type, which was confirmed by Franklin’s oncologist, Dr. Philip Phillips of Karmanos Cancer Institute.’
The family added: ‘In one of the darkest moments of our lives, we are not able to find the appropriate words to express the pain in our heart. We have lost the matriarch and rock of our family.’ ‘The love she had for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins knew no bounds. ‘We have been deeply touched by the incredible outpouring of love and support we have received from close friends, supporters and fans all around the world. Thank you for your compassion and prayers. We have felt your love for Aretha and it brings us comfort to know that her legacy will live on. As we grieve, we ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time.’ Franklin – who was dubbed The Queen of Soul – was best known for her hit songs Respect (You Make Me Feel) A Natural Woman, Think and Spanish Harlem. The American legend was said to be ‘extremely disappointed’ when she was forced to pull out of one of her last shows in March 2018.