Natalie Cole Dead at 65: Singer's Sisters "Grateful" to Spend Last Christmas Together

Legendary songstress Natalie Cole has died at the age of 65. Cole was a superstar that walked in her father's footsteps to become one of the greatest singers of all time. Before Coles funeral, her sisters, Timolin and Casey Cole, opened up about their big sister.

"Christmas Eve has always been a magical time for Natalie because she looked forward to the season and being surrounded by loved ones," Timolin told People magazine.

Several family members flew to Los Angeles to be with Cole before she died. "We had a wonderful evening where we reminisced about holiday traditions of the past and present, including decorating every inch of her Hancock Park home with vintage Christmas ornaments and finery," Timolin revealed.

Timolin also said that the holidays were a special time for her family because they would reflect on their late father's talents. "Christmas has always been a special time of the year for the Cole family because it is the time we most vividly remember our father [Nat King Cole], his music, and our early holiday traditions," says Timolin.

The sisters don't want people to think about Cole's death. They want people to remember her music instead.

"As our sister Natalie is remembered, it is our hope the focus will not be on her death, but will be on the countless moments of joyful music that she leaves for us all," Casey stated.

They continued: "We join her son, Robbie, in expressing our gratitude for the support we have received from her friends and fans that she loved so dearly."

Timolin said that the family will continue to work with their organization and provide music education to children who love music. "We hope that her passion for music serves as an example to young people around the world to work hard and make their dreams come true. To that end, we will continue our family's commitment to music as we provide music education to children with the greatest need and fewest resources through our nonprofit organization, Nat King Cole Generation Hope. We are honored to carry on the Cole family legacy that Natalie so passionately embraced."

According to NBC News, Cole died on New Years Eve at Cedar Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles "due to complications from ongoing health issues," the family statement confirmed.

"It is with heavy hearts that we bring to you all the news of our Mother and sister's passing. Natalie fought a fierce, courageous battle, dying how she lived ... with dignity, strength and honor," Timolin and Casey Cole, and the singer's son Robert Yancy said. "Our beloved Mother and sister will be greatly missed and remain unforgettable in our hearts forever."

Cole's voice led her to winning nine Grammy Awards. Some of her hit songs include "This Will Be," the remake of her father's song, "Unforgettable," "Miss You Like Crazy," and many more.