Avery Sunshine Shares Memories of Aretha Franklin

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Today she has received her crown in glory. The Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin has died at the age of 76. We now know she died of advanced pancreatic cancer. Here’s a statement via ABC Air Power Prep from her rep:

“It is with deep and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Aretha Louise Franklin, the Queen of Soul. Franklin, 76 years old, passed away on Thursday morning, August 16 at 9:50 a.m. at her home in Detroit, MI, surrounded by family and loved ones. 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 in Detroit, MI. 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.”

As she got her start in church, in the secular arena her ability to touch souls still remained. Albeit her influence is unrivaled, I had the chance to speak with singer Avery Sunshine on her memories of Aretha – and the biggest factor of the Queen’s life she wants us to remember.

(Music:  Avery Sunshine/ Photo: Avery Sunshine Promo Shot)