The brother of soul legend Bobby Womack was involved in a devastating car smash last week, which killed his wife. Friendly Womack Jr., 85, found fame with Bobby, who died in July 2014, and his other brothers in the R&B group The Valentinos in the 1950s. He is the last surviving sibling.

He and his wife Elaine were driving in Little Rock, Arkansas on Friday May 15 when they were part of a three vehicle collision at an intersection. The Pulaski Sheriff's Office confirmed Elaine was found dead in a car while Friendly was uninjured. The other people involved suffered minor injuries or no injuries at all. Police confirmed they are investigating the cause. Friendly's grandson Martice confirmed details of his grandmother's death to TMZ and said Friendly was fine. Meanwhile, friend Bobby Picket Thomas claimed the couple's granddaughter had been in the car with them. Paying tribute on Facebook he wrote: "I humbly request that you send prayers for my friend Friendly Womack, the brother of the celebrated vocalist and guitarist Bobby Womack.

"Friendly and his wife Elaine were involved in a devastating head-on car crash near their rural Little Rock, Arkansas home last Friday evening, which tragically claimed Elaine's life. Friendly and his granddaughter are currently in critical condition...

"I am praying for Friendly and his granddaughter's swift recovery. The Womacks are truly remarkable individuals who leave an indelible mark. May Elaine rest in eternal peace."

Other tributes flooded in for the star. A fan wrote on Facebook: "My heart is so, so very heavy right now, my friend, and the wife of Friendly Womack (last living Womack brother), Elaine Womack has passed. I met Elaine, while producing the musical, If You Think You’re Lonely Now, we would converse so much over the phone. I was honoured to fly them here to see the premiere of the show.

"I was also honoured they stayed at my house with me while they were here. She would call me just to encourage me to keep moving no matter what. I remember she telling me, since your mom is no longer here, I’m here for you! Although I just met she and her husband Friendly, they became family to me. Man, this hurts so much… Please pray for Friendly Womack and their family… SHE WAS A GEM and will be greatly missed!"

Another added: "Deepest condolences to Friendly Womack and all the family on the heartbreaking loss of Elaine Womack on Friday night. We were all due to meet next month. Thinking of you all at this incredibly difficult time and wishing "Uncle June" (Friendly) a full recovery from his injuries."

A third person posted an image of Elaine and chimed in: "This extraordinary powerful successful woman, dear Elaine Womack empowered me through my journey with cancer! I will forever cherish her unwavering support, love and kindness! May her radiant spirit soar in heaven, dear cousin! Please continue to uplift our Friendly Womack Jr. and family in your prayers!!"

A fourth shared: "Mrs. Elaine was truly an Angel on this earth. I only met her a few years ago at a family gathering in Las Vegas, but from the moment she and her husband Friendly walked in, we bonded instantly. Their love, their laughter, and the way they moved through the world together was a beautiful blessing a long-lasting marriage built on friendship, joy, and genuine devotion."

Meanwhile a fifth simply commented: "Such a sweet loving person Elaine Womack gone too soon."