Debbie Nelson, the mother of rapper Eminem, has passed away at the age of 69. A representative for Eminem confirmed to PEOPLE that Nelson died on the evening of Monday, Dec. 2, in St. Joseph, Missouri, due to complications from lung cancer.
Her illness was first brought to public attention in September 2024. At the time, it was reported that she didn’t have much time left.
Debbie Nelson, born on January 6, 1955, in Missouri, was the mother of rapper Eminem (Marshall Bruce Mathers III). She experienced a turbulent upbringing and later married Marshall Bruce Mathers Jr. The couple had Eminem in 1972 before divorcing shortly after his birth. Debbie primarily raised Eminem as a single mother, navigating financial struggles and frequent moves throughout his childhood.
#Eminem‘s mother Debbie Nelson has died at the age of 69 because of lung cancer.Rest in peace and thank you for Marshall, wherever you are. pic.twitter.com/F5OpnBQUXq
— ePro Team (@Eminem_Pro) December 3, 2024
Nelson’s relationship with her son was often strained and became a focal point in Eminem’s music, where he frequently referenced their conflicts. Despite public feuds and legal battles, their relationship saw moments of reconciliation over the years.
Eminem’s mother, Debbie Nelson, has passed away at the age of 69 🕊️REST IN PEACE pic.twitter.com/yLoc11HqAm
— RapTV (@Rap) December 3, 2024
Debbie published a memoir, My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem, in 2008, detailing her perspective on their complicated bond and the challenges of raising a child who rose to global fame.
In 2013, Eminem released the song “Headlights” in an attempt to express his sadness over their turbulent relationship.
Their relationship, marked by ups and downs over the years, saw improvement in recent times. In 2022, Debbie publicly expressed her pride in Eminem by congratulating him on his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Rest In Peace.
