Tito Jackson dies aged 70 - RETROPOP

The Jackson 5 star’s passing was confirmed on Sunday (September 15) by family friend and former manager Steve Manning (via Entertainment Tonight).

Although a cause of death has yet to be confirmed, Manning stated that he believes Tito suffered a heart attack on a drive from New Mexico to Oklahoma.

Tito’s sons – Taj, Taryll and TJ – later shared a statement on the loss of their father, writing in an emotional message on their band 3T’s Instagram page: “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken.

“Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being. 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.”

Alongside a carousel of photos of their father, they added: “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. Your boys, Taj, Taryll and TJ.”

Tito was the third oldest sibling in the Jackson family and found fame alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael as the Jackson 5.