Motown legend Mary Wilson of The Supremes dies aged 76 at home in Las Vegas

Legendary Motown singer Mary Wilson has died aged 76, her publicist has confirmed. 

The star, an integral member of soul pioneers The Supremes, died suddenly at her home in Las Vegas. A cause of death is yet to be announced. 

Long-term publicist Jay Schwartz confirmed to Fox that Wilson’s funeral service will be held privately in accordance with current health and safety guidelines, but a  public memorial will be scheduled for later in the year.  

Along with band-mate Diana Ross, Wilson was at the forefront of the Motown sound after signing with the label in 1961, originally as a member of The Primettes before the group changed their name.

Paying tribute to Wilson in a statement on Monday night, Motown founder Berry Gordy said: ‘I was extremely shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of a major member of the Motown family, Mary Wilson of the Supremes. 

‘The Supremes were always known as the “sweethearts of Motown.” Mary, along with Diana Ross and Florence Ballard, came to Motown in the early 1960s. 

‘After an unprecedented string of No. 1 hits, television and nightclub bookings, they opened doors for themselves, the other Motown acts, and many, many others. … I was always proud of Mary. 

‘She was quite a star in her own right and over the years continued to work hard to boost the legacy of the Supremes. Mary Wilson was extremely special to me. She was a trailblazer, a diva and will be deeply missed.’