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Former publicist of Teddy Pendergrass confirms that the legend R&B soul singer and songwriter died Wednesday evening, January 13, 2010, at the age of 59.

His son, Teddy Pendergrass II, also said that his father died at Bryn Mawr Hospital in suburban Philadelphia. Teddy Pendergrass had a fatal car accident in 1982 and eight months ago underwent colon cancer surgery and had difficulty recovering.

“To all his fans who loved his music, thank you,” his son said. “He will live on through his music.”

Pendergrass became a popular singer in the 1970s and ’80s because of his forceful voice. He was R&B’s reigning sex symbol during that time and was known for his smash love ballads such as “Turn Off the Lights” “Wake Up Everybody”, and “Love TKO”.

Lisa Barbaris, who calls herself a close friend and Teddy’s last publicist said:

“His beloved family surrounded him. The world has lost one of its greatest voices and performers,” Barbaris said in a statement.

“His family is devastated. He has three children and, even though it was expected, it still hurts,” she said.

Just like MJ, Teddy Pendergrass was a passionate singer and he will live on through his music. He gained popularity as a member of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes. After completing physical therapy in 1984, he returned to the studio in his wheelchair to record the album Love Language, featuring ballad Hold Me (duet with Whitney Houston). He also returned to the public for a performance on July 13, 1985 at the historic Live Aid concert in Philadelphia, then continued to record throughout the 1980s and 1990s. In 1998, Pendergrass released his autobiography entitled, Truly Blessed.

May his soul rest in peace.