*I am not sure I can accurately describe how I am feeling right now, but when I received a phone call that Tito Jackson had passed away, I think disbelief would be the best word to describe my initial reaction.
I realize death comes for us all, but somehow Tito’s death did not seem to be in the natural order of things, if that makes any sense. At first, I could not understand why I felt that way, but I think I know now.
You see, I spent my teenage years being a Jackson 5/Jacksons groupie of sorts, and all I read and experienced firsthand about Tito and his wife and children were so wholesome and humble that I guess somewhere in my mind I packed away the childhood memories and never thought of him going anywhere.
My fascination with the Jackson 5 started because my mother bought their third album and played it like they were part of the family. From there I was hooked.
By the time I reached Jr. high school, middle school for you younger folks, I was listening to the Jackson 5 nonstop and reading everything about them I could get my hands on.
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Back in the day, Right On! Magazine was my go-to source on all things Jackson. I had every Jackson 5/Jacksons album, and a Jacksons scrapbook, complete with autographs. Thanks to my uncle, I even had the address to the Jackson family home, and don’t think I didn’t use it. I was a child, so it was allowed.
The Jacksons had a basketball team that played for charity and Tito, Jackie, and Marlon were part of the team. I never missed a game. Tito’s then-wife Delores would come to the games, and we would chat about nothing specific, but she was always pleasant to me and down to earth.
I later found out Tito was that way as well, kind to his fans. I spent time speaking with him after the basketball games and when the Jacksons taped their summer TV show in the mid-1970s. I never missed an opportunity to be in the presence of the Jackson family.
Remember, I was a groupie. That means I was practically a stalker, but remember, I was a teenager, so it was allowed. Tito, Michael, and Jackie were always so nice to me. I may have been a nuisance, I’m not sure, but I was never treated like one.
Tito and the rest of the Jackson family were such an integral part of my formative years that I feel like another piece of my childhood has been chipped away. I felt the same way when Michael Jackson passed away. It almost feels like I lost a friend, and I am not alone.
The following is from Najee Ali, LA-based civil rights activist and friend to the Jackson family.
“Tito was not only a cherished member of the family but also a loyal and beloved friend to many. To those who knew him personally, he was the epitome of kindness, humility, and grace. He treated everyone with respect, especially his fans, always appreciating their love and support.
For me, Tito was like the older brother I never had. He welcomed me with open arms, offering his love and generosity in every interaction. His absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his memory will forever remain in our hearts. I will miss my dear friend and brother, and my thoughts and prayers are with the Jackson family during this difficult time.”
– Najee Ali, Friend of the Jackson family”
According to media outlets, Tito passed away on September 15, from a heart attack he suffered while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma.
My condolences to Tito’s mother Katherine, his three sons, and the rest of the Jackson family. RIP, Tito, and thanks for so many memories, now find your Corner of the Sky and I’ll Be There as a fan Forever.
Marilyn Smith is a Los Angeles-based writer/reviewer. Contact her via [email protected]
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Legendary Musician Tito Jackson (The Jacksons 5/The Jacksons) Passes Away at 70 | VIDEO
