Motown's Bertha Barbee McNeal dead: The Velvelettes singer dies at 82 after cancer battle

Bertha Barbee McNeal, 82, had been in a hospice for several weeks after her colon cancer had advanced. The musician, who was part of the hit group The Velvelettes, died in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Thursday.

She last performed with The Velvelettes in Kalamazoo in July.

Lead singer Cal Gill Street told the Detroit Press that McNeal was an "angel".

She told the Detroit Press: "I've lost my dearest friend. Bertie was a precious lady. I never heard any profanity, I never heard her speak ill of anybody, even if she was upset.

"She would get beyond that, like an angel here on earth. In the group, she was the glue that kept us from choking." 

The Motown Museum said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Motown alumnus Ms. Bertha Barbee-McNeal, a founding member of the Motown group The Velvelettes."

The Velvelettes were best known for their hit track "Needle in a Haystack" which reached number 45 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Tributes have since poured in for the singer as fans offered their condolences to the Motown legend.

Jason penned: "That's a shame, RIP! I was just playing Needle In A Haystack a couple of years ago." 

Alberta commented: "Thankful for her contributions to the Motown sound and family. Loved their music. May God rest her soul! Condolences to the family and closest friends."

James wrote: "The Velvelettes were one of the most underrated groups at Motown. They had some awesome songs!"

Adam remarked: "If ever there was a Motown act which earned its place in Hitsville history from one unimpeachable record ("Needle In A Haystack"), it was the Velvelettes. Rest in Peace, Bertha."

David added: "The Velvelettes' biggest hit. Shoulda been much bigger."(sic)