"Tito Jackson, co-founder of the Jackson 5 and brother of Michael Jackson, passes away at 70"

 Tito Jackson, brother of Michael Jackson and a founding member of The Jackson 5, passed away on Sunday at the age of 70. His sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ, shared the news in a heartfelt statement on Instagram, writing, “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson, is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken.”

According to former Jackson family manager Steve Manning, Tito died of an apparent heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma, though the official cause of death has not yet been confirmed.

In their tribute, Tito's sons described him as an "incredible man" who was always thinking of others. “Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some as ‘Coach Tito,’ or ‘Poppa T,’” they wrote. “Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously.” They ended the statement with a message of love and unity, urging others to follow their father’s advice to "Love One Another."

Tito was born Toriano Adaryll Jackson and became known as the guitarist for The Jackson 5, the iconic group he formed with his brothers in 1964 in Gary, Indiana. Managed by their father, Joe Jackson, the group became famous for hits like “ABC,” “I Want You Back,” and “I’ll Be There,” earning them a place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.

Tributes have poured in, with many fans expressing condolences and sharing memories of Tito’s legacy. One person wrote, “Your father was a great man, who will be missed and loved forever. Blessings always.” Another added, “He’s dancing with Michael again.”

Tito Jackson’s passing marks the end of an era for the legendary musical family, but his influence and music will be remembered for generations to come.