'Queen of Soul' Aretha Franklin dead at 76

Acclaimed singer and songwriter, Aretha Franklin, has been battling ill health this week and sadly lost the fight earlier today. She was 76 years old.

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from her publicist just confirmed that Franklin passed away at her Detroit home, and the cause of death was advanced pancreatic cancer.

Read more on our Twitter account, @amomama_usa and scroll down for details about her passing.

On Monday, news of Franklin’s illness made headlines and fans were concerned when her family asked for prayers during this tough time.

Despite rumors of Franklin’s condition, her family was still hopeful that she might see this through.

Back in March, Franklin was ordered by doctors to cancel her performances. It was her intention to retire and she made the announcement last year. She explained:

“I will be recording, but this will be my last year in concert. This is it.”

Since news of Franklin's deteriorating health, celebrities have been paying tribute to the legendary singer, and Steve Wonder paid her a visit earlier this week.

Several other celebrities also paid tribute to the undisputed Queen of Soul on social media as well. Mariah Carey, Missy Elliott, Andy Cohen, Beyoncé, and E.L. James are just a few of them.

Medical personnel prepared her family and informed them two weeks ago that she could pass away at any time.

Franklin made history as the first woman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and leaves behind a remarkable legacy.

She was present for the Elton John AIDS Foundation and, after singing a couple of hits, she closed the concert with “I Say a Little Prayer” and “Freeway.”

Franklin has been ill for a long time, but she decided to keep it a secret and never made it public up until the news broke on Monday.

Watch this video about the most emotional moments in her life!