Tito Jackson’s family announces the Jackson 5 member has died: ‘We are shocked’

Tito Jackson, one of the brothers who was a member of the Jackson 5, has died, according to an Instagram post his family shared on Sept. 16.

“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, written by his sons and featuring photos of him over the years, began.

“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.’

“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.”

Jackson grew up alongside eight siblings and was part of the Jackson 5 band that became superstars, launching the most famous sibling, Michael Jackson, into a realm of fame few attain.

Along with Michael Jackson and Tito Jackson, the Jackson 5 also featured Marlon Jackson, Jackie Jackson and Jermaine Jackson. The band, who was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, released such hits as “I’ll Be There,” “ABC,” “I Want You Back” and “The Love You Save.”

Michael Jackson died in December 2009. Tito Jackson said losing him had a great impact on the family.

“I would say definitely it brought us a step closer to each other. To recognize that the love we have for each other when one of us is not here, what a great loss,” he told The Associated Press six months after his brother died.

Tito Jackson also released solo music. His most recent album was 2021's "Under Your Spell." According to his website, a new single called "Love One Another," featuring 3T and Stevie Wonder, is coming soon. He was the last of the siblings to release a solo project, according to the AP, with "Tito Time" in 2016.

In addition to his kids, Tito Jackson leaves behind brothers Jermaine Jackson, Randy Jackson, Marlon Jackson and Jackie Jackson, as well as sisters Janet Jackson, Rebbie Jackson and La Toya Jackson. He is also survived by his mother, Katherine Jackson. The siblings' father, Joe Jackson, died in 2018, at the age of 89.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com