Tito Jackson, a founding member of the Jackson 5 and brother of the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson, died on Sunday at the age of 70.
The recording artist’s sons TJ, Taj, and Taryll posted an update about his passing on Instagram.
“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us,” the post said. “We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.”
The post continued, “Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some may know him as ‘Coach Tito’ or some know him as ‘Poppa T.’ Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously. It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us. Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is ‘Love One Another.’ We love you Pops.”
Jackson reportedly had a heart attack while driving to Oklahoma, where he had recently moved.
Jackson was a founding member of the Jackson 5, along with brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael. The singing family was internationally known in the late 1960s and 1970s. Some of their most popular songs included “ABC,” “I Want You Back,” and “The Love You Save.”
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Tito Jackson was nominated for three Grammys. In 1997, he was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Jackson 5.
Jackson married Delores “Dee Dee” Martes at the age of 18 in 1972. The couple had three sons and divorced in 1988. He is survived by his children, who make up the R&B/pop group 3T, and nine grandchildren.
The recording artist has been touring with members of his band, The Jacksons, including brothers Jackie and Marlon. Earlier this week, Tito was in Munich, Germany, and said he had “visited the beautiful memorial dedicated to our beloved brother, Michael Jackson.”
He wrote on Facebook, “We’re deeply grateful for this special place that honors not only his memory but also our shared legacy. Thank you for keeping his spirit alive,” Page Six reported.
