Tito Jackson, member of the Jackson 5 and brother of Michael Jackson, has passed away at the age of 70 while driving.
The founding member of the Jackson 5 and older brother of Michael Jackson passed away on Sunday, reportedly from a suspected heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma, according to family friend and former Jackson family manager Steve Manning. An official cause of death has not yet been determined.
Tito Jackson was last photographed on September 9 in Munich, Germany, just six days before his death, prior to a performance by The Jacksons’ current line-up, which includes brothers Jackie and Marlon Jackson. His final Instagram post depicted a visit to Michael Jackson’s memorial in the city, accompanied by the caption: “Before our show in Munich, my brothers Jackie, Marlon, and I, visited the beautiful memorial dedicated to our beloved brother, Michael Jackson. 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.”
Michael Jackson, the King of Pop known for hits such as “Smooth Criminal” and “Beat It,” passed away on June 25, 2009, at the age of 50 due to a cardiac arrest. Tito Jackson is survived by his three sons—Taj, 41, Taryll, 39, and TJ, 46, who were members of the band 3T—as well as nine grandchildren.
Tito Jackson’s sons shared heartfelt photos and an emotional tribute, stating: “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 deeply about everyone and their well-being.”
The tribute read: “Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some as ‘Coach Tito,’ or others 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: ‘Love One Another.’ We love you, Pops. Your boys, Taj, Taryll, and TJ.”
Tito’s sons’ mother was Delores ‘Dee Dee’ Martes, whom Tito married in 1972 and divorced in 1988.
Delores ‘Dee Dee’ Martes was found dead in a swimming pool in 1994 at the age of 39. Although her death was initially ruled accidental, her boyfriend Donald Bohana was later charged with her murder and found guilty of second-degree murder in 1998. Bohana was granted parole in December 2022 after serving 24 years.
The Jackson 5 was formed in 1964, with founding members Tito (born Toriano Adaryll), Jackie, and Jermaine. Their younger brothers, Marlon and Michael, joined the group shortly thereafter.
