Remembering the Queen of Soul
As we reflect on the life of the legendary singer Aretha Franklin, it’s impossible not to marvel at her unwavering spirit. Even during her courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, the Queen of Soul found solace and joy in doing what she loved most—performing. Following her passing at the age of 76 on August 16, 2018, one of Aretha’s grandchildren, Victorie Franklin, took to Twitter to share a heartfelt home video capturing one of the music icon’s final performances.
A Touching Final Performance
In this poignant black-and-white clip from March 17, 2018, Aretha is seen effortlessly playing the piano while singing. It’s a moment that perfectly encapsulates her essence—raw talent combined with an unshakable passion for music. Victorie, who was just 18 at the time, shared this intimate video along with a deeply emotional caption. "I have many memories of walking into her home and finding her at the piano, singing. Words can't describe the pain I'm feeling right now, but God is telling me that she's at peace," Victorie wrote. She went on to express her personal grief, acknowledging the loss of both an icon and her beloved grandmother. "Today we lost a legend, but today I lost my grandma. I love you, and I’ll make you proud," she added.
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I have many memories of me coming into her home and she would be playing the piano and singing. Words can’t describe the pain I’m feeling, but God is telling me that she is at peace. Today we lost an icon, a legend, but today I lost my grandma. I love u and imma make u proud 💕 pic.twitter.com/cSFK5pibEV
— Victorie✨ (@TDirt__) August 16, 2018
Support in Times of Grief
Later that day, Victorie returned to Twitter to thank her followers for their overwhelming support during this incredibly challenging time for her family. "Thank you to everyone who has been sending so much love my way. It means the world to me, and I truly love all of you," she wrote, showcasing her strength and gratitude amidst her sorrow.
A Legacy That Lives On
Aretha Franklin's passing was confirmed by her family through a statement released by her publicist, Gwendolyn Quinn. The message began with heavy hearts, stating, "It is with deep and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Aretha Louise Franklin, the Queen of Soul." The statement detailed that Franklin, at the age of 76, passed away on Thursday morning, August 16, at 9:50 a.m., in her Detroit home, surrounded by family and loved ones. Her official cause of death was advanced pancreatic cancer of the neuroendocrine type, confirmed by her oncologist, Dr. Philip Phillips of the Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit, Michigan.
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A Family’s Tribute
In one of the darkest moments of their lives, Aretha's family expressed their inability to find adequate words to convey the depth of their pain. They lost the matriarch and the foundation of their family. The love she had for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins was boundless. The family was deeply moved by the outpouring of love and support they received from friends, supporters, and fans worldwide. "We thank you for your compassion and prayers. We feel your love for Aretha, and it brings us comfort to know that her legacy will endure," the family concluded in their message. As they grieve, they kindly requested privacy during this difficult time.


