Jimmy Ruffin -- Motown Legend Dead At 78

Jimmy Ruffin, the crooner who was a staple in Motown for decades, has passed away at the age of 78.

Ruffin reached legendary Motown status in 1966 with his hit "What Becomes of the Brokenhearted" ... and had incredible staying power, hitting the Top 10 yet again with "Hold On To My Love" in 1980.

Ruffin's family ties were just as impressive ... his younger brother, David Ruffin, was the lead singer of The Temptations. David was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989.

Ruffin's 2 kids -- Philicia and Jimmy Lee -- confirmed that he passed Monday at his home in Las Vegas.

Brokenhearted indeed.