Founding member of the beloved disco pop group, Sister Sledge, Joni Sledge has passed away. She was 60.

According to a statement issued by the iconic singer's family, Sledge was discovered yesterday (Mar. 10) unresponsive in her home in Phoenix, Arizona. At the time of this report, the cause of her untimely death has yet to be determined and memorial services will be announced early next week.

"Yesterday numbness fell upon our family," the Sledge family shared in a statement. "We welcome your prayers as we weep the loss of our sister, mother, aunt, niece and cousin, Joni Sledge. We thank you for privacy and prayers during these very difficult times."

Sister Sledge formed in 1971, consisting of sisters Debbie, Joni, Kim and Kathy Sledge, and went on to secure their permanent place in music history, releasing the multi-platinum global anthem, "We Are Family."

The 1979 single went on to reach number two on the US Billboard Hot 100, earning the group a Grammy nomination. Other hit singles from Sister Sledge's impressive catalog include "Mama Never Told Me" (1975), "He’s the Greatest Dancer” (1979), "Lost In Music" (1979) and "Reach Your Peak" (1982) which featured Joni singing the lead.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Sledge family during this difficult time.