Jimmy Ruffin, the soul singer most well known for his hit "What Becomes Brokenhearted," died in Las Vegas on Monday, November 17.

He was 78. His kids, Philicia and Jimmy Lee confirmed his passing but did not give the cause.

"Jimmy Ruffin was a phenomenal singer," said Motown founder Berry Gordy in a statement. He called "Brokenhearted" "one of the greatest songs put out by Motown and also one of my personal favorites.

Other Ruffin hits included "I've Passed This Way Before," "Gonna Give Her All the Love I Got" and "Hold On To My Love."

Ruffin moved to Detroit in the 1960s and was singed to Motown's Miracle label.

In the 1980s, he shipped out to the U.K., where he recorded songs with Paul Weller andHeaven 17.

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