Fans flocked to the star throughout Thursday after hearing the news of the singer's death. They sang and shared recollections of the music icon.
"My father played her music growing up in our home. He blasted it in the living room, and so we've known her in our lives since we were little," said Thembekila Smart, who said her favorite Franklin song was "Respect."
Franklin took soul music to its commercial and creative pinnacle in the 1960s.
MORE: Music industry and the world grieve Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin grieved by the music industry, world
"She's the 'Queen of Soul.' She touched every part of me when I was a youngster (and during) Vietnam," said Martin Wade.
Franklin died from the advanced stages of pancreatic cancer. Some who had met her could not contain their emotions reflecting on just how humble and loving she was to them.
"Her legacy is written in my heart," Wade said.
Aretha Franklin fans honor 'Queen of Soul' with flowers, crown at singer's Hollywood Walk of Fame star
Pink's Hot Dogs, one of Franklin's favorite restaurants, also paid tribute to her on Thursday by using condiments to spell her name on hot dogs.
MORE: Aretha Franklin through the years
Aretha Franklin through the years: A look back at her accomplishments and legacy
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