Tito Jackson’s sons Taj, Taryll and TJ have paid tribute to their ‘beloved father Poppa T’ after the star passed away at the age of 70.
The founding Jackson 5 member died from a suspected heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma on Sunday.
Taking to Instagram on Monday, Taj, 51, Taryll, 49, and TJ, 46, announced with ‘heavy hearts’ that their father had passed away.
The brothers shared that ‘It will forever be “Tito Time” for us,’ in the heartwrenching post, which was accompanied by pictures of them with their father throughout the years.
They also shared their father’s touching outlook on life, adding: ‘Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is “Love One Another”.’
Tito Jackson’s sons Taj, Taryll and TJ paid tribute to their ‘beloved father Poppa T’ on Instagram after the star passed away at the age of 70 on Sunday
Taking to Instagram on Monday, Taj, 51, Taryll, 49, and TJ, 46, announced with ‘heavy hearts’ that their father had passed away
Announcing Tito’s death, they wrote: ‘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”.
‘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.’
Their mother was Delores ‘Dee Dee’ Martes who Tito wed in 1972 before divorcing in 1988.
Delores was found dead in a swimming pool in 1994 aged 39 and while her death was originally ruled accidental – her boyfriend Donald Bohana was subsequently charged with murdering her and later found guilty of second-degree murder in 1998.
Tito was last pictured on September 9 in Munich, Germany six days before his death – ahead of a performance by The Jacksons’ current line-up, also featuring brothers Jackie and Marlon.
His final Instagram post showed him visiting MJ’s memorial in the city, with the caption: ‘Before our show in Munich, my brothers Jackie, Marlon, and I, visited the beautiful memorial dedicated to our beloved brother, Michael Jackson.
The founding Jackson 5 member died from a suspected heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma on Sunday (Pictured in 2017)
The brothers shared that ‘It will forever be “Tito Time” for us,’ in the heartwrenching post, which was accompanied by pictures of them with their father throughout the years
The brothers shared their father’s touching outlook on life, adding: ‘Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is “Love One Another”‘
‘We’re deeply grateful for this special place that honours not only his memory but also our shared legacy. Thank you for keeping his spirit alive.’
Tito’s brother King of Pop Michael – who was known for hits including Smooth Criminal and Beat It – died on June 25, 2009 at the age of 50, after a cardiac arrest.
Just weeks ago Tito’s sons took to social media to share gushing Father’s Day posts about their doting dad.
Sharing an adorable snap of him as a young boy with Tito sporting a flat cap, Taj wrote: ‘Happy Father’s Day, Pops!
‘From the very beginning, you’ve been a guiding light and rock. Your strength, experience, and love have shaped me into the man I am today.
‘Every day, I am grateful for the countless lessons you’ve taught me, the endless support you’ve shown me, and the unwavering belief you’ve always had in me.
Tito rose to fame in iconic quintet – the Jackson 5 – headed up by his younger brother Michael and with brothers Jackie, Jermaine and Marlon Jackson – pictured 1968
Just weeks ago Tito’s sons took to social media to share gushing Father’s Day posts about their doting dad
Sharing an adorable snap of him as a young boy with Tito sporting a flat cap, Taj wrote: ‘Happy Father’s Day, Pops!’
‘You are not just my dad, but my role model and hero. I’ll always look up to you, admire your incredible soul, and strive to follow in your footsteps. I am proud to share your name.
‘Thank you for being the best Father anyone could ask for. Love Tariano Jackson II.’
Meanwhile, TJ shared a more recent picture of him and Tito as the pair hugged.
TJ wrote: ‘Each and every year I learn something from my father. Pops thank you for being you. I love you always.’