Ronnie Spector, the co-founder of the legendary R&B/soul group The Ronettes, has died at the age of 78.

Spector’s family confirmed the news through a statement, saying, “Our beloved earth angel, Ronnie, peacefully left this world today after a brief battle with cancer. She was with family and in the arms of her husband, Jonathan.”

“Ronnie lived her life with a twinkle in her eye, a spunky attitude, a wicked sense of humor and a smile on her face. She was filled with love and gratitude. Her joyful sound, playful nature and magical presence will live on in all who knew, heard or saw her,” the statement adds. “In lieu of flowers, Ronnie requested that donations be made to your local women’s shelter or to the American Indian College Fund. A celebration of Ronnie’s life and music will be announced in the future. The family respectfully asks for privacy at this time.”

The pop star was born in 1943 in Manhattan as Veronica Yvette Bennett. She became popular at just 18 while performing with her older sister Estelle Bennett and cousin Nedra Talley. They made hits like “Be My Baby,” “Baby I Love You” and “Walking in the Rain.”

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