Ronnie Spector, the lead singer of the iconic girl group the Ronettes, passed away on January 12, 2022, after a brief battle with cancer. She was 78 years old. Her family announced the sad news in a statement, saying that she “peacefully left this world today after a brief battle with cancer. She was with family and in the arms of her husband, Jonathan.”
## Who Was Ronnie Spector?
Ronnie Spector, born Veronica Bennett, was one of the most influential singers of the 1960s, known for her powerful voice and glamorous style. She formed the Ronettes with her sister Estelle and cousin Nedra in Harlem, New York, and they soon became a sensation with their catchy songs and sexy look.
The Ronettes scored hits with pop classics like “Be My Baby”, “Baby I Love You”, and “Walking in the Rain”, produced by Phil Spector, who later became Ronnie’s husband and tormentor. The group toured with the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, and inspired generations of artists, from the Beach Boys to Amy Winehouse.
Ronnie Spector also had a successful solo career, collaborating with Eddie Money, Southside Johnny, Joey Ramone, and others. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007, along with the other Ronettes.
## What Type of Cancer Did Ronnie Spector Have?
The family of Ronnie Spector did not reveal the type of cancer that she had, only saying that it was a “brief” battle. However, some sources have speculated that she may have had ovarian cancer, based on her previous health issues.
According to People, Ronnie Spector underwent a hysterectomy in 2016, after doctors discovered a tumor in her uterus. She told the magazine that she was lucky to have caught it early, and that she was feeling “great” after the surgery.
Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs that produce eggs. It is often hard to detect in its early stages, because it may not cause any symptoms or may cause vague symptoms that are easily mistaken for other conditions. Some of the common symptoms of ovarian cancer include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, trouble eating or feeling full quickly, and urinary problems.
Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cause of cancer death among women in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. The survival rate depends on the stage of the cancer, the type of treatment, and the patient’s age and overall health. The five-year survival rate for all stages of ovarian cancer is about 48%, but it can be as high as 94% if the cancer is found and treated before it spreads.
## How Are Fans and Celebrities Reacting to Ronnie Spector’s Death?
The death of Ronnie Spector has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans and celebrities alike, who have praised her as a trailblazer, a legend, and a friend. Some of the stars who have expressed their condolences and admiration include Stevie Van Zandt, Brian Wilson, Cher, Darlene Love, Joan Jett, Nancy Sinatra, and Bruce Springsteen.
Ronnie Spector’s legacy will live on through her music, her style, and her spirit. She was a woman who lived her life with a “twinkle in her eye, a spunky attitude, a wicked sense of humor and a smile on her face”, as her family said. She was filled with love and gratitude, and she touched the hearts of millions with her joyful sound, playful nature, and magical presence.
