Aretha Franklin was "gem" to Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy

DETROIT (WJBK) - A performing arts school in Detroit says The Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin has been instrumental in its development. 

Debra White Hunt, the founder of Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy, met Aretha in the 1980s and their relationship grew from there. Aretha eventually invited the organization to dance at performances with her, concerts and countless other events. 

"She has supported Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy for many years, by allowing us to participate in her life," White Hunt says. 

She says Aretha took every opportunity to pay it forward by helping the up-and-coming talent in Detroit, the city that raised her. Aretha was born in Tennessee in 1942 but her family made Detroit their home shortly after. Her father was a pastor at New Bethel Baptist Church on Linwood, where her music career was launched. 

"Aretha Franklin is like a gem to us," White Hunt says, "because of her love of dance and her love of the arts and music. She has had a vast effect on many of us in the city."

News of Aretha's deteriorating health spread earlier this week. She's said to be seriously ill at her home, surrounded by loved ones. Stevie Wonder visited her on Tuesday, as well as the Rev. Jesse Jackson and her ex-husband, actor Glynn Turman.

"She is loved by this community and we would never, ever forget all that she has done for us and made a difference in our life," White Hunt says. "We know that she knows the Lord, and we know that we'll see her again."