Jackson 5 Legend; Tito Jackson Dies At 70

Brother to Michael and Janet Jackson; Toriano Adaryll Jackson popularly known as Tito Jackson, has died at the age of 70.

Tito was a singer and guitarist for the Jackson 5 which provided a soundtrack for a generation of young listeners in the 1970s.

Although the cause of Jackson’s death has yet to be officially confirmed, his family friend Steve Manning told Entertainment Tonight he believed the singer had suffered a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma on Sunday (September 15).

Tito was the third of 10 siblings, and the third to have passed away.

Marlon, a member of Jackson 5, lost his twin brother Brandon to death a few hours after his birth in 1957. After quitting the group, Michael went on to become one of the best-selling artists of all time, but he overdosed on propofol in 2009, which ultimately claimed his life.

Tito started his own solo blues music career in 2003. His two studio albums, “Tito Time” and “Under Your Spell,” were released in 2016 and 2021, respectively.

Tito Jackson married Delores “Dee Dee” Martes in 1972; however, the two separated in 1988, which was six years before she was discovered dead in a swimming pool.

Three members of the couple’s family—Taj, Taryll, and TJ—make up the R&B/pop trio 3T.

Taj, Taryll, and TJ — on their Instagram account dedicated to their music group, 3T paid tribute to their father.

“We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father Tito Jackson @titojackson5 was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being. Please remember to do what our father always preached, “Love One Another.” We love you Pops and will forever miss you.

“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,’” the statement said. “Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously.”

He is survived by his mother and nine grandchildren.

May his soul rest in peace, Amen.