Debbie Nelson, the mother of rap icon Eminem, has passed away at the age of 69 after a courageous battle with advanced lung cancer. She died Monday night in St. Joseph, Missouri, surrounded by loved ones, according to reports from TMZ.

Nelson's battle with cancer became public in September when sources revealed she was "terminally ill" and had limited time left. Despite their complicated history, Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III, reportedly supported his mother financially throughout her illness, although the two had not been in regular contact for years.

"Eminem has always been good to his mom, ensuring she is cared for," a source shared. "But they haven't really spoken. This could have been an opportunity for reconciliation."

Debbie Nelson gave birth to Eminem in October 1972 at the age of 18. She was married to his father, Marshall Bruce Mathers Jr., but the couple divorced shortly after his birth. Their tumultuous relationship mirrored the struggles Nelson faced in raising her son, a narrative that would later emerge in Eminem's music.

The pair's rocky dynamic became infamous through Eminem's lyrics, particularly on his debut album, The Slim Shady LP. In 1999, Nelson sued her son for defamation, citing claims in his music that she used drugs. While she initially sought $11 million, Nelson was awarded $25,000 but reportedly received less than $2,000 after legal fees.

Despite these challenges, Nelson remained hopeful about repairing their bond. In a 2008 interview with Village Voice, she expressed her enduring love for her son, saying, "I'm not ever gonna give up on my kids. There's hope for everybody. It's a matter of swallowing your pride."

Her memoir, My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem, shed light on her life, including the abuse she endured as a child and the struggles of raising Eminem in poverty. The book also shares her perspective on their strained relationship.

In 2013, Eminem released "Headlights," a song that served as a public apology to his mother. The heartfelt lyrics acknowledged his regrets and expressed forgiveness, signaling a turning point in their relationship.

While Nelson did not attend her son's 2022 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, she sent a heartfelt congratulatory video message, expressing her pride in his achievements. "I love you very much," she said in the clip. "It's been a long ride. I'm very, very proud of you."

In addition to Eminem, Nelson had a younger son, Nathan Samra-Mathers, born in 1986. Nathan's early years were marked by instability, and he entered foster care before Eminem gained custody of him. Despite her personal struggles, Nelson's life story is a testament to resilience and the complexities of family bonds.

Debbie Nelson's passing marks the end of a chapter in one of hip-hop's most iconic narratives.

RIP.