Eminem has faced a profound loss with the passing of his mother, Debbie Nelson, as confirmed by multiple reports on Tuesday, December 3. Nelson was 69 years old at the time of her death. Although Eminem has not publicly addressed her passing, his representative, Dennis Dennehy, provided confirmation of the tragic news to PEOPLE.

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Debbie Nelson passed away on Monday evening in St. Joseph, Missouri. As reported by TMZ, which was the first to break the news, the 69-year-old had been battling complications from lung cancer. Tragically, Eminem’s estranged father had also passed away at the age of 67 in 2019, as noted by TMZ.

Understanding Eminem’s Relationship with His Mother During Her Final Days

The public learned about Debbie Nelson’s struggle with terminal cancer in September when InTouch Weekly reported on her advanced illness. Sources claimed that Debbie was alternating between periods at a cancer treatment center and staying with family members. The insider mentioned, “She has a very limited amount of time,” indicating the gravity of her situation. Despite their complicated history, Eminem continued to provide financial support for his mother and extended family, showcasing a commitment to care amid strained relationships.

“People around her aren’t even sure if Eminem is even aware of what is happening to his mother,” the insider shared with InTouch Weekly. “He’s good to his mom. He makes sure he takes care of her, but they don’t really talk. It would be good for both of them [to communicate]. This could give them the chance to reconcile.”

Eminem’s tumultuous relationship with his mother has long been a topic of public interest. In 1999, his hit song ‘My Name Is’ criticized his mother and their troubled childhood. That same year, Debbie Nelson filed a defamation lawsuit against her son, seeking $11 million in damages. According to ABC News, she won the case in 2001 but ultimately received a mere $1,600 after legal fees from the $25,000 awarded.

Despite this legal battle, Eminem did not hold back in expressing his feelings. In 2002, he released ‘Cleanin’ Out My Closet,’ where he candidly addressed his mother and their fraught relationship. The lyrics, particularly in the third verse, reflect deep-seated emotions and unresolved issues.

“But guess what, you’re gettin’ older now, and it’s cold when you’re lonely. And Nathan’s growin’ up so quick, he’s gonna know that you’re phony. And Hailie’s gettin’ so big now, you should see her, she’s beautiful. But you’ll never see her, she won’t even be at your funeral (Ha-ha!). See, what hurts me the most is you won’t admit you was wrong. B*h, do your song, keep tellin’ yourself that you was a mom! But how dare you try to take what you didn’t help me to get?! You selfish b*h, I hope you fuckin’ burn in hell for this sh*t! Remember when Ronnie died and you said you wished it was me? (Hehe) Well, guess what? I am dead—dead to you as can be!”