Soul singer Teddy Pendergrass has died at the age of 59 after undergoing surgery to treat colon cancer at a Philadelphia hospital.   The singer had been battling the disease for the last eight months.  His son Teddy II released this statement:

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

Teddy Pendergrass was left paralyzed from a car accident in 1982.  He went on to record Love Language the following year and established the Teddy Pendergrass Alliance, an organization whose mission is to encourage and help people with spinal cord injuries achieve their maximum potential in education, employment, housing, productivity and independence, according to its website.

He is the first African American to record five consecutive multi-platinum albums.  His hits include “Love T.K.O.,” ”Close the Door” “Turn Off The Lights” and “I Don’t Love You Anymore.” He is survived by his son, two daughters, his wife, his mother and nine grandchildren.

Our condolences to his family and friends.

Photo:  WENN