If you have ever danced to the infectious "We Are Family" at your family reunion, you have this lady to thank. 

Joni Sledge, the founding member of 70's supergroup, Sister Sledge was found unresponsive at her home in Phoenix, Arizona on March 10 and was later pronounced dead according to the band's publicist, Biff Warren. 

Along with her sisters, Debbie, Kim and Kathy, Joni founded the group in 1971, when they were all under 21. They started out playing at churches and local events around Philadelphia which led to tours and opening for big acts like the Spinners. While attending Temple University, Joni and her sisters were the only female vocal group signed to Atlantic Records. Drawing many comparisons to the Jackson 5, the group dropped their debut album, Circle of Love in 1974 and attracted a loyal following. It was their 1979 album We Are Family that awarded them their gold and platinum plaques as well as nationwide fame. Joni had created a new sound dubbed as 'alternative soul' and it was here to stay.

The Sledge family released a statement on Facebook about Joni’s death.

Yesterday, numbness fell upon our family. We are saddened to inform you that our dear sister, mother, aunt and cousin, Joni passed away yesterday. Please pray for us as we weep for this loss. We do know that she is now eternally with Our Lord.

We thank you in advance for allowing us the privacy to mourn quietly as a family. We miss her and hurt for her presence, her radiance, and the sincerity with which she loved & embraced life.

The cause of Joni Sledge’s death is yet to be determined and her family announced a memorial service will be announced early next week. She is survived by her sisters and her adult son, Thaddeus.