Janet Jackson has publicly addressed the heartbreaking loss of her brother, Tito Jackson, for the first time. On Tuesday, October 15, Janet, 58, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, honoring Tito’s memory. She posted a touching photo of the two and wrote, “May you rest in eternal peace. I miss you so much.”
Tito Jackson, best known for his role in the iconic Jackson 5, passed away in September. According to the family’s former manager, Steve Manning, Tito died from a suspected heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma. His passing has left a profound impact on his family and fans.
Tito’s three sons, Taj, 51, Taryll, 49, and TJ, 46, also paid tribute to their father on social media. The trio, who perform as the musical group 3T, expressed their sorrow in an Instagram post. “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson, is no longer with us,” they shared. “We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken.”
They further described Tito as an “incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.” In their heartfelt post, the brothers reflected on the many roles Tito played in their lives, from “Coach Tito” to “Poppa T.” They also honored his enduring legacy, saying, “It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us.”
Tito Jackson rose to fame in the 1960s alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael (who passed away in 2009), as part of The Jackson 5. The group, known for hits like “I Want You Back” and “ABC,” was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997. In addition to his time with The Jackson 5, Tito pursued a solo music career, releasing two albums, Tito Time in 2016 and Under Your Spell in 2021.
Before his passing, Tito had been performing with his brothers Marlon and Jackie as The Jacksons. The trio recently paid tribute to their late brother Michael during a concert in Munich, Germany, on September 11. In an Instagram post, Tito shared how meaningful it was to visit the memorial dedicated to Michael before their show, writing, “We’re deeply grateful for this special place that honors not only his memory but also our shared legacy.”
Tito Jackson is survived by his three sons, grandchildren, his mother Katherine, and his siblings, Rebbie, Jackie, Jermaine, LaToya, Marlon, Randy, and Janet. His passing has left a lasting void in the Jackson family and among fans worldwide, but his legacy continues to live on through his music and the love he shared with those around him.