Etta James Son Details Her Final Moments

James’s oldest son, Donto, shared with People, “It’s been quite a day but I’m very grateful. She basically passed in my arms, and I was able to share everything I needed to say to her, from praying to listing her accomplishments as a mother.”

He continued, “I told her that I loved her. I said, ‘You were a wonderful mother, you did a wonderful job, your seven grandchildren love you, and they will be okay.’”

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James, who was seriously ill for the last year and died of complications from her long-battle with leukemia, was unable to speak in her final hours but seemed to be aware of the love her sons were bestowing on her.