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Aretha Franklin
1942 - 2018
Aretha Franklin
1942 - 2018
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1942
DIED
2018
Aretha Franklin Obituary
Read full obituary.
We invite you to share condolences for Aretha Franklin in her Guest Book.
Died: Thursday, August 16, 2018
Details of Death: Died due to advance pancreatic cancer at the age of 76, according to multiple news sources.
Memorable Moments: The first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. Given a Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005. Ranked first on Rolling Stone’s list of the greatest singers of all time.
Notable Quote: “Being a singer is a natural gift. It means I'm using to the highest degree possible the gift that God gave me to use. I'm happy with that.”
What people said about her: “The voice of God, if you must know, is Aretha Franklin's.” – Singer Marianne Faithfull
Watch Aretha sing in our video gallery.
4688 Entries
Sonia
November 27, 2024
Much gratitude for your soul-filled life and gift of music that you left the world. I hope that you achieved your desire to find yourself...one love Queen of Soul
Leslie Redaway
October 16, 2024
Rest In Heaven
Gaynell Curley
October 3, 2024
We miss you
Anita Heath-Boyd
July 31, 2024
Ms. Franklin left an indelible memory of her and firsthand of our mother. Our mother transitioned on July 21,1969. My sisters and I have the memory of our mother and your music. Listening to your music gave us the only memory of our mother. And for that we are eternally grateful.
So thank you Auntie Rere for the memories.
Peachy´s Girls
How you can show support
Jane Louthen Hanlon
April 29, 2024
She was an original!!!
Anthony Martin
April 9, 2024
May Almighty Father God bless and strengthen the family and continue to comfort the family and continue to bless the family
Richard Gutshall
February 28, 2024
My heart goes out to her family she was an amazing and very talented as well as a gifted woman she may be gone for now but will never be forgotten.....
Cynthia Sylvia Blair
October 25, 2023
Ms Franklin was my most favorite singer of all times and she died on my birthday. I loved everything she sang, I went to her concerts, especially when she had special guess singers and her delectable dinners. What I admire most is that she carried herself as a queen would. She always had impeccable manners, but knew how to put you in your place kindly, if necessary. I also remember when waiting in line to enter the church for the concerts, the crowd was always respectful and showed christian like behavior before entering the sanctuary. This in itself showed respect for the Queen, Ms. Aretha Franklin and how we Detroiters respected and loved her,
Harry Simpson
September 19, 2023
Godspeed Aretha, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us, and the wonderful film, TV, and especially the music memories. Unforgettable. The "Queen of Soul" indeed. "Long Live the Queen"...
Great Fan of The Queen
July 14, 2023
The Queen went to be with Her Father on my birthday. R.I.H. and sing for the Heavens- always.
Sharon Haywood
November 12, 2022
Rest In Peace Queen of Soul !!!!
Lynn Lipsey
June 28, 2022
Praising God for the life of this jewel. Queen, Ms. Aretha Franklin the world will never know another with such honor and greatness. Thank you for all of your expressions of love through your great voice/music. You are truly the QUEEN OF SOUL! Well done thy good and faithful servant! Much Love!
Aiden.Capers
April 13, 2022
ARETHA FRANKLIN Will be missed in 2022 and 2021 and 2020 and 2019 and 2018 and
Sandra Hawkins-Hall
January 28, 2022
125 Osage Ln
Kim Dent
January 21, 2022
Beautiful lady with a powerful voice. You are greatly missed, especially in the Motor City!!! ❤❤
Lucious Guinn
September 12, 2021
RIP cousin you were the Queen
Charmayne Harrell
August 2, 2021
Aretha Franklin was my Grandmothers niece the late mazie Beverly Franklin Sulton
James E. Tyson Anderson Lyas
June 14, 2021
Aretha and Rev. C. L. Franklin were related to my Grand Mom Addie Smith who married Ike Turner Uncle Tommie Turner. Rev. C.L. Franklin moved from the Mississippi Delta to Memphis, TN. (James Lyas)
Dennis Winship
May 16, 2021
I liked When aretha franklin performed america the beautiful at wrestle mania lll . She is truly the queen of soul. Dennis Winship Lynn Massachusetts
Alexis gore
April 25, 2021
MAN this lady right here always the best. Much love MS Franklin rest easy.
Clara Johnson
March 29, 2021
Surely an heavenly angel looking over the world. Her legacy shall live on
Dean Edolas
February 23, 2021
Like many people on this Earth, I never personally knew Ms. Aretha, but her music touched me deeply, with her soulful voice and fierce personality, she was more than just a singer. She was both a women's and a human rights activist, fighting for things a simple singer or pianist might not even care about. She was so strong but being a gal from the fifties I guess she had to be. That passion filled her life, from the moment she recorded her first gospel album, to all her many accomplishments that inspired millions. The life of Aretha Louise Franklin deeply affected everyone not just musicians or even soul enthusiasts, but the entire world. She might be gone, but the title "Queen of Soul" is a permanent, everlasting title, that can only be filled by Ms. Franklin's wails.
Denise Cook
February 16, 2021
From the very first time I heard you perform, I loved you then and I love you still. Your singing to and with the angels now and you've blessed us here on earth forever with you're angelic voice to remember you by. But we'll all meet with you again, until then - love and rest in peace.
February 14, 2021
DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO ARETHA'S FAMILY. SHE WAS MY FAVORITE ARTIST.
GERTRUDE EDWARDS
WEST ORANGE, NEW JERSEY
Ginger Laureen Hunter
November 3, 2020
Blessings to the family of Ms.Aretha Franklin,May the Lord grant you peace and may the Holy Spirit comfort and keep you! Let the words of Psalm 23 be your guide.She was a great Woman of God!
Cyndi Powell
June 16, 2020
WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH ARETHA! YOUR MUSIC WILL LAST FOREVER, AND MAY YOU REST IN ETERNAL PEACE!
DEBRA KING
June 5, 2020
I LOVED AND ADMIRED YOU SO MUCH, FROM A TEENAGER INTO MY ENTIRE ADULT LIFE, ARETHA MY QUEEN OF SOUL. THERE WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER YOU. NO MATTER WHAT YOU SANG, GOSPEL OR R & B, THE WORDS OF YOUR SONGS AND THE PASSION YOU SANG WITH MOVED MY VERY SOUL. YOU WILL LIVE IN MY HEART FOREVER AND I'LL SEE YOU WHEN I GET HOME. REST WELL WITH THE KING OF KINGS MY QUEEN!!!!!
Patricia Starks
May 17, 2020
I know the words and sing along to her music - J&B as well as gospel. It felt like she was singing to the soul of people to hear her live! She was wonderful in life and will always be missed. But her music will be here forever for the world to enjoy - "It will Never Grow Old" RIP Aretha!
Odessa Perry
May 14, 2020
In memory of my soul sister,you will always be in my ❤ RIP..Your MUSIC Also..
Denise Gary
March 15, 2020
May God continue to bless, comfort, keep, and strengthen the entire Franklin family!!!
Jean Holzer
March 9, 2020
I danced to her music until I got to old to really dance, like I did in my younger days. Knowing shes the standout in Gods Heavenly Choir, Ill look forward to seeing her as the most wonderful of Gods Angels.....With My Utmost Respect, Jean L Aziz-Gardner-Holzer
spooner oldham
February 19, 2020
It was a wonderful experience, playing music with Aretha, on her early Atlantic records.
Jessica
February 11, 2020
RIP
Carroll Barriere
February 9, 2020
Mr carroll abdul
I miss you you were the best my lady may GOD keep you we did't know
Jacqui Greene
February 3, 2020
How can you say goodbye to someone who has always been a part of your life? You can't. Ms. Aretha, you will live in my heart forevermore. Thank you for all of the music, magic and good memories. Rest well.
Phyllis Williams
February 2, 2020
Thanks for the joy I got from your voice and songs. Memories...
Phyllis Berry
December 30, 2019
My prayers and thoughts are continuous for your family and friends who miss you. May God's comfort be their strength to move forward.
November 25, 2019
Aretha was a beautiful dream in many hearts!Her songs gave meaning to the world and will truly be remembered and greatly missed.May her family be comfort by the God she loved so much and strength them in the days and months to come.
Betty Jean.
Diana Turner
November 23, 2019
Ms. Aretha was loved by so many. They loved her beautiful voice & she was a lovely person. R.I.P. dear lady. God bless your family & loved ones. Another lovely angel with a magnificent voice.
Jackie Reddick
November 21, 2019
I love you Aretha for all your beautiful music.
October 21, 2019
Aretha her songs always their to lift you up when you are down, never be forgotten, may the family and friends find peace and comfort from the God of all comfort.
amber lemieux
October 15, 2019
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. Aretha, I loved you.
Lisa Southall
September 30, 2019
We will miss you
Yvette McAdams
September 16, 2019
Your music was the soundtrack to my Mother's life (R.I.P.), thank you for making her happy. You will also be truly missed.
Veronica C Williams
August 28, 2019
TO THE THE AND FRIENDS OF MRS. A.L. FRANKLIN. YOU HAVE MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY.. MRS. FRANKLIN WHEN VISITING RICHMOND, VA. AS AN YOUTH. PLAYED WITH MY MOM& HER SISTER AND BROTHER'S. IN THE MID 50 AND 60s.. MY HER SOUL. REST IN PIECE.. AMEN!! GOD BLESS!! ALWAYS AMEN!! WALK BY YOUR FAITH!! ALWAYS
August 16, 2019
Ms Aretha Franklin, you will truely be missed forever in many days to Come R.I.P!
Ruby Cooper
August 15, 2019
In loving memory of a wonderful person.We love you and miss you always.
Dayne Low
August 14, 2019
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Cinder littlejohn
August 11, 2019
Rest in peace we love you but God loves you best. Feel no more pain.
Lois L Fields
August 5, 2019
Rest in Peace
Terri Chgo
June 28, 2019
May the GOD of comfort be with you PS 83:18
Cynthia Samuel
June 13, 2019
Condolences for the Queen of all Queens! There will NEVER be another.
Aquila Chamberlain
May 26, 2019
Ms. Aretha Franklin had a great message for her generation, that inspired a loving group of people to love again.
Love Always,
jada anderson
May 14, 2019
U are truly missed
Leia Mandeville
May 12, 2019
Our loving Heavenly Father gave us those little black dots called music one of the gifts which man can render praise and thanksgiving to his Creator and to give expressions to his emotions, his sorrows and joys. Singing has always been prominent in the worship of God. Mark 14:26. Mrs.Franklin your music legacy will be missed.
Ms. Carolyn Hooks
May 9, 2019
Ms. Aretha Franklin is my favorite Female vocalist. Is and Always will Be. I Love this very Strong Women. I will never forget her Beautiful Voice either for as long as l shall Live. "Peace be still" my Friend Ms. Aretha Franklin...
Mary Lawrence
May 2, 2019
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Gwendolyn Saddler
April 30, 2019
Rest In Peace,Queen of Soul
Cedric Chandler
April 28, 2019
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Connie Green
April 16, 2019
Miss you Aretha!
Jerry Talton
April 11, 2019
Aretha i have beenb a fan since i was 6 years old now im 60 and your like family,R.I.P. i'll see u wheni get there.
Tia Randolph
April 10, 2019
She was my first vocal mentor and I was this.... close to match her perfection and never got a chance to tell her... Rest in Paradise Aretha... I will always try to reach your Mastery of Music!!!!
Love Always,
Tia Danette aka 1Jazzylady!!!!Chi-town Finest "2019"
Linda Lacy-Carson
April 5, 2019
May the Lord continue to bless her family and the lives she touched :)
Gertrude Mays
March 29, 2019
Gertrude Mays miss you love all your songs.
Cheryl Burt
March 28, 2019
To the family of Ms Franklin, You wer blessed to have a precious jewel from God! She had a tremendous voice, and my all time favorite singer. She partially shared my mother's first name which was Retha and almost shared the same birthdate. My mother's was March 29th. May God watch over yall until you see her in heaven!
Corletta Hardy
March 27, 2019
Rest In Peace,Queen of Soul Happy Birthday you fly above you have your wings you are miss you will live on through the music thank,you for the music sleep in heavenly peace.
Julianne
March 27, 2019
Thank you for all the joy you gave us. For sharing your life !
Runette Turner
March 27, 2019
My deepest sympathy for the family. She was definitely the Queen of Soul! I will always love you and your singing.
Franck Talk II
March 27, 2019
You are still with us, Black Queen!
DANIEL Brentjt
March 27, 2019
THANKYOU MY DEAR FOR ALL YOUR GLORY.I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU.I CAN HERE YOU NOW SINGING FOR GOD.THANK YOU SPECIAL ONE.
Sharon
March 27, 2019
You will always be alive as your music is so powerful. Thank you for everything you have done and continue to do, you will never be forgotten. Rest in harmony and eternal peace xxx
Edna M Freeman
March 26, 2019
Happy Blessed Birthday In Heaven, Aretha Franklin and God Bless you and we will miss you in spirit !!
Edna M Freeman
March 26, 2019
Thank you for great performances to us, You will be Greatly Miraculous missed, not forgotten and your voice and your songs are soooo beautiful and God Bless you Ms. Aretha Franklin, The Queen of Soul and we will miss you in spirit. God Bless you all of you in Heaven.
Savannah Boyce
March 25, 2019
I GREW UP LISTING TO ARETHA, A VERY DISTINCT VOICE HAT STOOD OUT. LOVED HER MUSIC.
Earth Angel
March 25, 2019
A few months ago, I saw Tracee Ellis Ross dancing to Respect at the American Music Awards. I thought I had never heard it before, but when I heard it at the awards, I thought it sounded familiar. 2 months later, I realized that I heard it at my elementary school. They used different songs on the announcements to teach us about types of character, and when they taught about respect, they played that song. I remember one day in second grade, my table mate got up and danced to that song. I love you my queen. Youll never get to see your Grammy tribute, or see Jennifer Hudson play you in the movie about you. Just know she took over your throne when you died. Thank you for everything you left on earth. #77inHeaven
March 25, 2019
Happy birthday to the deceased Queen of Soul. She was not just a singer, but a storyteller. When Aretha sang, it made people feel so good inside because she was a natural woman. Her performances left everyone speechless. Sometimes people fainted after hearing her voice. It was a power in the world. Without Aretha Franklin, there would be no Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Mariah, Jennifer Hudson, Brandy, Anita Baker, Jazmine Sullivan, Monica, Fantasia, Kelly Clarkson, Janet Jackson, Alicia Keys, etc. She was the sweet sound of Amazing Grace. She wasnt a Motown artist, but she was the most important singer in Detroit, Michigan. She one 18 Grammy Awards in her life. When she died on August 16, 2018, it was a turning point in the world. She reshaped not just black history, but American history. Cont.
March 22, 2019
Your music show it to millions of people. May your family find joy in remembering the love she showed to you and may you find peace in the promise made at John 6:40.
faye moore
March 14, 2019
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Joyce A fisher
March 11, 2019
May God be with you all during this time of sorrow
Stevie Cowles
March 3, 2019
we will all miss you !! Your memory will be forever
February 15, 2019
To the Family of Aretha Franklin,
So sorry for your loss and pray that each of your are comforted by the God of all Comfort.
Music will never be the same without the Queen of Soul. There will never be a replacement. Respect is what we all need and she gave it to us! Oh! What a voice!
May she stay alive in the hearts of each of you. What a wonderful Woman!
She inspired so many people!
May God Bless You.
Sincerely,
GP and EJW from Tampa, Fl.
Connie Green
February 8, 2019
Keep the faith!
Nene Wilson
February 8, 2019
My heart was deeply sadden when I learned of her passing. She was like an Auntie in my life even though I've never had the pleasure of meeting her in person. I did attend the viewing in Detroit.
February 7, 2019
My condolences to the family and will remember to respect Aretha's contribution and
love having variety in her selection of music! 1Cor 15:21
Valerie Bell
February 5, 2019
MY NAME IS VALARIE BELL AND I TOO HAVE LOST ONE OF MY IDOLS. I SANG MY FIRST SOLO AT THE AGE OF 6 YEARS OLD, AS I GREW UP MY FATHER WOULD PLAY HER SONGS, SONGS BY PATTI LABELLE, AND GLADYS KNIGHT THEY SOON BECAME MY IDOLS. TODAY, I HURT WITH YOU, I CRY WITH YOU, BUT MOST OF ALL I PRAY FOR YOU. SHE WILL TRULY BE MISSED BUT SHE AS WELL AS HER MUSIC WILL LIVE ON FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS. JUST LOOK TO THE HILLS FROM WHENCE COMETH YOUR HELP, IT COMES FROM THE LORD WHICH MADE HEAVEN AND EARTH.
Lessie Dancy
January 29, 2019
Aretha was the best female singer of all time, and I have mostly all of her records. I love you queen, R.I.H.
Jiri Holmes
January 27, 2019
I hope the best for y'all and heaven has an angel coming rip aretha Franklin
tina
January 25, 2019
God has bless your family , with so many wonderful memories of your loved one. Please accept my sincere condolences Ms. Aretha Franklin will truly be missed. May God help you through this difficult time
Billy & Ann Porter
January 10, 2019
Rest In Peace Queen of Soul. Your legacy will continue to live on.
Pauletta Coates
January 8, 2019
I am praying for the Late Queen of Soul Ms.Aretha L. Franklins Family Be strong children,God will take care of yaall. I miss her also and her singing and her present.
Linda Rallies
January 8, 2019
She is the Best!
Doris Andrews
January 3, 2019
You have been a treasured, honorary member of my family my entire life. Your voice in my household was as prevalent as my grandfather's/pastor's voice. You were my first musical influence. You are loved and will be missed as long as music exists.
JENNIFER BARIBAULT
December 31, 2018
ARETHA FRANKLIN WAS ONE OF KIND ICON, SHE WILL BE TRULY MISSED BY EVERYONE WHO HEARD HER SONGS, I TRULY REMEMBER WHEN SHE PASSED AWAY THURSDAY AUGUST 16TH ON THE RADIO, MY HEART WAS BROKE ALONG THAT WAS NICE THEY PLAYED RESPECT. SHE MADE A CAMEO IN THEY MOVIE IN THE BLUE BROTHER'S AS A WAITERESS, PLUS SHE DID A NUMBER YOU BETTER THINK. I SAW EPISODE ON MURPHY BROWN THAT SHE WAS POST TO INTERVIEW THE QUEEN OF SOUL BUT WAS SHE STUCK IN TRAFFICE JAM AND WHEN EVERYONE LEFT SHE SHOULD UP THEY TALK, DID A NUMBER OF COURSE NATURAL WOMEN ALONG MURPHY SING WITH HER, ALSO, IN SOME EPISODES WE COULD SEE HER SING ALONG WITH ARETHA FRANKLIN MUSIC OR DANCING OF COURSE SHE GOT CAUGHT BY HER PAINTER. THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES, YOUR MUSIC WILL STILL LEAVE ON PLAYING .. RESPECT KEEP ON SING ARETHA..
Eyvonne Woodford
December 28, 2018
What an Icon, we have lost . She will forever be etched in the hearts of Many, Many Fans. Her music will
most definitely live on!! GOD BLESS the FAMILY..
Flew to Detroit Topay my Respect to QUEEN Aretha Thank. You <9Queen Elizabeth Thomas|B
Queen Elizabeth Bryant
December 28, 2018
Flew to Detroit to Pay Respect to QUEEN ArethaR.I.P. Queen Elizabeth Bryant
patricia Chatman
December 28, 2018
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Linda Mason
December 27, 2018
I will miss her music and the wonderful songs she sang. She would not sing a song unless it was something she would sing from her heart. No other than Aretha Franklint had the gift of song and put meaning to it. She will always be The Queen of Soul.
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