Mary Wilson, one of the founders of legendary Motown group The Supremes, has died suddenly at the age of 76.

In a statement, her publicist Jay Schwartz said that the singer died at her home in Henderson, Nevada but did not disclose her cause of death.

The Supremes has a string of hits in the 1960s, including 'You Can't Hurry Love' and 'Baby Love', and was the springboard for Diana Ross's solo career.

Motown founder Berry Gordy, 91, said: "I was extremely shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of a major member of the Motown family, Mary Wilson.

"The Supremes were always known as the 'sweethearts of Motown.' Mary, along with Diana Ross and Florence Ballard, came to Motown in the early 1960s. After an unprecedented string of No. 1 hits, television and nightclub bookings, they opened doors for themselves, the other Motown acts, and many, many others. ... I was always proud of Mary.

"She was quite a star in her own right and over the years continued to work hard to boost the legacy of the Supremes. Mary Wilson was extremely special to me. She was a trailblazer, a diva and will be deeply missed."

Ross tweeted: "I just woke up to this news, my condolences to you Mary's family, I am reminded that each day is a gift, I have so many wonderful memories of our time together 'The Supremes' will live on, in our hearts."

Wilson is survived by her daughter and son.