Tito Jackson, a founding member of the Jackson 5 and older brother of Michael Jackson, has passed away at the age of 70. He died on Sunday from a suspected heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma, according to family friend and former Jackson family manager Steve Manning.
Tito was last photographed on September 9 in Munich, Germany, just days before his death, as he prepared for a performance with The Jacksons, which includes brothers Jackie and Marlon Jackson. His final Instagram post featured a visit to Michael Jackson’s memorial in Munich, with a heartfelt message honoring his late brother and celebrating their shared legacy.
Michael Jackson, the King of Pop known for hits like “Smooth Criminal” and “Beat It,” passed away on June 25, 2009, at the age of 50 due to cardiac arrest. Tito Jackson is survived by his three sons—Taj, 41; Taryll, 39; and TJ, 46—who were members of the band 3T, and nine grandchildren. The sons shared a moving tribute, expressing their grief and love for their father, whom they cherished as a guiding figure and a source of inspiration.
Tito’s former wife, Delores ‘Dee Dee’ Martes, whom he married in 1972 and divorced in 1988, tragically passed away in 1994. Her death was initially ruled accidental, but her boyfriend Donald Bohana was later convicted of second-degree murder.
The Jackson 5, formed in 1964 by Tito, Jackie, and Jermaine Jackson, with Marlon and Michael joining soon after, achieved early success with Motown Records. The group’s string of hit singles, including “I Want You Back” and “ABC,” were bolstered by Tito’s distinctive guitar work. The Jackson 5 became the first American group to have their first four singles reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
In the mid-1970s, Randy Jackson replaced Jermaine as the group transitioned to CBS and became The Jacksons. Tito reunited with his brothers for Michael Jackson’s 30th-anniversary concert in 2001. Despite Michael Jackson’s controversial moments and legal battles, Tito defended his brother’s legacy and remained steadfast in his support.
Tito Jackson also pursued a solo career in blues music, releasing albums such as Tito Time and Under Your Spell. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 as part of the Jackson 5 and reflected on his brother Michael’s impact in recent interviews, lamenting the public’s harsh treatment of him.
Tito had performed in recent weeks across California, England, and Scotland. His next performances were scheduled for October 25 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and November 1 in Cincinnati, Ohio. His passing marks the end of an era for the legendary family band.
