Ronnie Spector, lead singer of the Ronettes, dies at 78

(CNN) – Ronnie Spector, frontman of the pop group The Ronettes and the powerful central voice of hits like “Be My Baby” and “Baby I love You,” has died, his family announced in a statement on their website Wednesday.

“Our beloved earth angel, Ronnie, left this world alone today after a brief battle with cancer. She was with her family and in the arms of her husband, Jonathan. Ronnie lived her life with a twinkle in her eye, a brave demeanor, a wicked sense of humor and a smile on his face, “the Spector family said in their statement.

“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. In lieu of flowers, Ronnie requested that donations be made to the 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 requests privacy at this time. ”