Nearly 26 years after the release of A Tribe Called Quest's debut album People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm, one of the group's founding members, Mailk Taylor (best known as Phife Dawg) has died, his rep has confirmed.

After battling multiple illnesses in recent years, Taylor died Tuesday at the age of 45 as a result of complications from diabetes.

"Malik was our loving husband, father, brother and friend," his family said in a statement released Wednesday. "We love him dearly. How he impacted all our lives will never be forgotten. His love for music and sports was only surpassed by his love of God and family."

Dion Liverpool, his manager added: "While I mourn the loss of my best friend and brother, I also will celebrate his incredible life and contribution to many people's ears across the world. Even with all his success, I have never met a person as humble as he. He taught me that maintaining a positive attitude and outlook can conquer anything. Now my brother is resting in greatness. I'm honored to have crossed paths with him. Riddim Kidz 4eva."