Motown singer Jimmy Ruffin, best remembered for his hits "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted" and "Hold on to My Love," passed away Monday at a hospital in Las Vegas, AP reports.

The singer was 78.

Ruffin's children, Philicia Ruffin and Jimmy Lee Ruffin Jr., confirmed the singer's death Wednesday.

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No details were, however, provided as to the cause of his death.

Ruffin's younger brother, David Ruffin, was the lead vocal of the phenomenal Motown act The Temptations. He died in 1991 at age 50.

Ruffin's children announced in a statement that they are greatly grieving their father's passing.

"Jimmy Ruffin was a rare type of man who left his mark on the music industry. My family in its entirety is extremely upset over his death. He will truly be missed," the statement said.

"We will treasure the many fond and wonderful memories we all have of him."

Born on May 7, 1936, in Collinsville, Mississippi, Ruffin became a contract singer of Motown Records and was among the most popular Motown act in the 1960s.

His most memorable single, "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted," reached the Top 10 pop hit. He was also unforgettable with his other hit singled, including "I've Passed This Way Before" and "Gonna Give Her All the Love I've Got." His comeback  single, "Hold on to My Love" (1980), also hit pop's top 10 hits.

Ruffin also collaborated with David for the album "I Am My Brother's Keeper."

Ruffin spent many years living in England.

Philicia and Jimmy Lee extended their heartfelt gratitude for the support of their father's fans.

"We appreciate all of the love and prayers from our family, friends, his colleagues and his adoring fans," the statement said.

Motown Records founder Berry Gordy has nothing but praise for Jimmy, calling him "a phenomenal singer."

He cited that Jimmy while remained underrated throughout his career because his brother's fame eclipsed his, he still managed to hold on his own with "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted," which Gordy hailed as "one of the greatest songs put out by Motown and also one of my personal favorites.

Of his personal attributes, Gordy said: "He was a wonderful human being, quiet and unassuming, who touched many lives with his music... Jimmy Ruffin will always be a part of the Motown legacy..."

The family is yet to announce the singer's funeral arrangement.

Tagsjimmy ruffin, motown