The music industry has lost another legend. In recent years we’ve waved goodbye to the greats like David Bowie, Prince, and George Michael. Today we bid farewell to the ‘Queen of Soul’ Aretha Franklin.

The I Say A Little Prayer singer passed away at her home in Detroit, surrounded by her loving family.

This afternoon, the Respect singer’s representative confirmed the heartbreaking news that she had passed away from pancreatic cancer.

Her family issued a statement: “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.”

They continued: “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.”

Earlier this week, her family revealed that the iconic singer was “gravely ill.” They asked the public to keep her in their prayers during her final days.

Aretha Franklin gave her final performance in August 2017 at Philadelphia’s Mann Center.