The singer, whose career has spanned seven decades, died at her home in Detroit, Michigan, at 9.50am on Thursday, her publicist said.
A statement from Franklin’s family, via the singer’s long-time publicist Gwendolyn Quinn, said that she died “surrounded by family and loved ones”.
The statement continued: “Franklin’s official cause of death was due to advance pancreatic cancer of the neuroendocrine type.
“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.
US gospel artist Jocelyn Brown joined in with tributes being made around the world and told Premier she was hoping that Franklin wouldn’t die yet.
Speaking to Lady D on Premier Gospel, she said: “I wanted more from her but God has his own way.”
She added that she was comforted knowing that the star “knew prayer” and was “with the Lord”.
The family’s statement thanked people for their support since news broke that the singer was seriously ill.
“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,” the family said.
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