NEW YORK (AP) – Nick Ashford, one-half of the legendary Motown songwriting duo Ashford & Simpson, has died at age 70.

His longtime friend and former publicist Liz Rosenberg told the Associated Press that Ashford — who along with wife Valerie Simpson wrote some of Motown's biggest hits — died Monday in a New York City hospital. He had been suffering from throat cancer and had undergone radiation treatment.

Among the songs Ashford & Simpson penned are Ain't No Mountain High Enough, You're All I Need To Get By and Reach Out And Touch Somebody's Hand.

He is survived by his wife and two daughters.

http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/obit/story/2011-08-22/Motown-songwriter-Nick-Ashford-dies/50098836/1

I just saw this on Twitter and shocked is an understatement.  I had no idea that he was battling throat cancer.  Um. Another music legend gone Home to Glory.  My heart goes out to his family and friends.  He and Valerie Simpson have been married for a long time.  I can only imagine how she's feeling at this moment.  My prayers go out to her also.  May he rest in eternal peace.