On Sunday (May 10), news surfaced that R&B icon, Betty Wright, has passed away. She was 66 years old.

In a post to twitter, Wright’s niece confirmed the devastating news. “I just lost my aunt this morning…. and now my mood has changed…. sleep in peace aunty Betty Wright. Fly high, angel,” she wrote alongside a photo of her aunt. She continued, “My auntie was a legend…. she helped me get my first paychecks singing background….. and I didn’t make it to see you this past week and that’s going to haunt me …. R.I.P. Betty Wright.”

After the news hit the internet, many celebrities paid their respects with heartfelt tributes including Chaka Khan. “Calling all my #PrayWarriors | My beloved sister, Betty Wright @MsBettyWright, is now in need of all your prayers. “Que Sera, Sera | Whatever Will Be, Will Be.” In Jesus Name We Pray for Sister Betty. All My Love Chaka,” she wrote.

Throughout her career, Wright released timeless bangers that will be remembered for generations to come – “No Pain,” Tonight Is the Night,” “From Pay to Joy,” and “Clean Up Woman.”

Back in November 2011, Wright spoke with NPR about her time as a vocal couch and her legacy. During the conversation, Wright explained that she took her craft seriously. “I believe in legacy, and I believe in making the radio sound better. If I get to listen to it, I want it to sound good. So I’m tired of people disturbing the peace, getting on the radio sounding like a hot mess. So when I go in and I help coach or do a vocal production, I just want it to sound better,” she explained.

At the moment, Wright’s cause of death has yet to be revealed. The late singer is survived by her two daughters and two sons. R.I.P., Betty Wright.