(Photo By Flickr User Trending Topics 2019)

Melvin Edmonds, founding member of the of the Grammy-nominated group After 7, has died.

According to Black America Web & EURWEB, reports say the After 7 co-founder and co-lead singer’s death comes after a long illness and several strokes. His specific cause of death, however, has not yet been revealed. Edmonds passed away on May 18th.

Melvin’s son, Jason Edmonds, took to his Facebook profile to speak on the passing of his father:

“I’ve been receiving and reading everyone’s messages and texts about my Dad. I appreciate the kind words and I’ll have something to say in return. For now, I just need time to process.”

After 7 was founded in Indianapolis, IN in 1987 by Babyface’s brothers Melvin and Kevon Edmonds, as well as Keith Mitchell who was marketed as the cousin of producer L.A. Reid although he is not. He was just a college friend of the two brothers. Jason Edmonds, Melvin Edmonds’ son, later joined as well. Melvin left the group some years back after their third album, but rejoined them recently for After 7’s 2016 release, Timeless.

The group recorded 4 studio albums “After 7,” “Takin’ My Time,” “Reflections,” and “Timeless.” They are also known for their hits “Ready or Not,” “Can’t Stop,” “Baby, I’m For Real/Natural High Medley,” “‘Til You Do Me Right,” and “Nights Like This” from The Five Heartbeats soundtrack.

Melvin Edmonds is survived by four children: Melvin, Jason, Chris and Courtney.

Singer-Songwriter and founding member of After 7, Melvin Edmonds, dead at the age of 65.