Another Temptation Passes Away – Fans Mourn Richard Street [VIDEO]

Just as fans deal with the loss of music greats Cloetha Staples and Otis "Damon" Harris, Richard Street of the legendary Temptations died Wednesday (Feb. 27) morning at the age of 70.

Streets wife Cindy told CNN of his death, "He was really fighting for his life.  He's a fighter.  Speaking of her husbands group mate, Cindy said "They're dancing up there in heaven, him and Damon.  I'm in disbelief right now."

Born and raised in Detroit, Richard Street believe it or not, was the first member of the Temptations to actually be a native of the city home to Motown.  As it turns out, all of the other members were born and at least partially raised in the South.

Richard Street replaced Paul Williams and officially joined the Temps back in 1971.  Ironically prior to becoming a official member of the group, he actually was singing off-stage for Paul, while he lip-synched on stage.  So, it was only a matter of time before he became a permanent member.  He remained with the group for 20-years before pursuing a solo career.  As a matter of fact he just got off a 45-date tour in Europe last September and October.

Cindy Street said that her husband had suffered from a blood clot more than a decade ago and ever since then his health had been declining.  Prior to his death, she took him to the emergency room Friday because he was having trouble breathing.  Sadly he didn't get any better and passed away Wednesday morning at St. Rose Dominican Hospital in Las Vegas.

During a telephone interview Mrs. Street said, "He was fighting to the very last moment.  He was very happy.  He had the kind of life he wanted.  We laughed all the time."  As far as his career she said, "He was very proud of being part of black history.  He loved performing and was very proud of what he had done."

Richard Street was a busy man and along with performing and touring, he was also in the process of writing a book based on his time with The Temptations entitled Ball of Confusion.  By the way, he didn't record the original version of that song.  He actually joined the group a year after it was released.  None the less, hopefully the book was far along to be released.  If it is, it'll be the second autobiographical account of The Temptations to come out.  The first, was released by group founder Otis Williams entitled Temptations and was released in 1988.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete as Mrs. Street is trying to arrange an open service for his many friends and fans.  However, it will more than likely take place next week. Richard Street is also survived by his wife and four children.  May he rest in peace.