His wife, Francesca, told The Hollywood Reporter

that he passed away at home in Pittsburgh on Wednesday after a brief illness.

“It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved brother, Lou Christie,

who left us after a brief illness.

He was cherished not only by his family and close friends, but also by countless fans whose lives he

touched with his kindness and generosity, artistic and musical talent, humor and spirit.

His absence leaves a profound void in all our hearts.

He will be greatly missed, always remembered, and forever loved.”

The Sacco Family posted a tribute to Christie on Instagram.

Lou Christie born Lugee Alfredo Giovanni Sacco was Raised in Glenwillard,

Pennsylvania, a small town near Pittsburgh.

He showed an early interest in music.

He studied voice and music theory and began performing in his teens.

He eventually formed a lasting songwriting partnership with Twyla Herbert

, a classically trained pianist several decades his senior.

Together, they wrote hundreds of songs over the years.