The Queen of Soul will never be forgotten. Aretha Franklin passed away yesterday (Aug. 16) after a lengthy battle with cancer. Franklin long denied claims that she was fighting cancer, but her health steadily declined for years. In 2017, Franklin retired from touring, although she did commit to performing at more intimate venues. News of her health reaching a critical state began circulating earlier this week before she was placed on Hospice. Franklin was 76 years old. The legendary icon influenced an entire genre, and is responsible for so many of the stars that we look up to today. According to TMZ, Franklin's family is preparing for a massive turnout for The Queen's memorial service.
The memorial for The Queen of Soul will be held at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit, which will allow for thousands to attend. The service will last for two days and will be an open-casket viewing for the public. A service celebrating the life of Franklin will feature musical performances. The funeral service will be held at Greater Grace Temple for friends and close family only. The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History was also the site of Rosa Parks' viewing in 2005.
