Aretha Franklin has died at the age of 76 from advanced pancreatic cancer. Franklin’s publicist Gwendolyn Quinn revealed an official family statement to the Associated Press:
“Franklin’s official cause of death was due to advanced pancreatic cancer of the neuroendocrine type, which was confirmed by Franklin’s oncologist, Dr. Philip Phillips of Karmanos Cancer Institute. 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.”
Alice In Chains singer/guitarist William DuVall and other rockers paid tribute on social media.
RIP Aretha
— Papa Roach (@paparoach) August 16, 2018
RIP #ARETHAFRANKLIN Truly the end of an era. There will never be another Aretha Franklin.. She's now singing w/ the greats leading the all-star band in heaven, a true goddess that touched the soul and so many others forever. #RESPECT to the #QUEENOFSOUL https://t.co/siEOoeINbE
— Living Colour (@LivingColour) August 16, 2018
So sad. Aretha Franklin, the queen of soul has passed away. Our prayers and condolences to family, friends and fans.
— Gene Simmons (@genesimmons) August 16, 2018
Let’s all take a moment to give thanks for the beautiful life of Aretha Franklin, the Queen of our souls, who inspired us all for many many years. She will be missed but the memory of her greatness as a musician and a fine human being will live with us forever. Love Paul pic.twitter.com/jW4Gpwfdts
— Paul McCartney (@PaulMcCartney) August 16, 2018
