Paris Jackson, Prince Jackson, and other Jackson family members react to the death of patriarch Joe (updated)

Jackson family patriarch Joe Jackson died Wednesday at the age of 89. The co-executors of Michael Jackson’s estate, John Branca and John McClain, confirmed his death, reportedly from pancreatic cancer, in a statement in which they offered “heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Katherine Jackson and the family.”

The family is slowly starting to speak out about the man, nicknamed “The Hawk,” who ushered the Jackson 5 to superstardom and championed the solo careers of icons Michael and Janet Jackson. However, Joe Jackson leaves a complicated legacy due to his heavy-handed tactics — with his children and others he did business with along the way. Michael Jackson, who died in 2009, accused his father of physical abuse while Joe Jackson was managing the careers of him and his siblings (Joe Jackson had 11 children), but also said he believed that the methods were instrumental to his success.

Michael’s children were some of the first to publicly pay tribute to their late grandfather. Paris Jackson posted a touching message that recalled their final moments together — as well as a photo of them holding hands while he was in his hospital bed.

Prince Jackson, Michael’s elder son, said his grandpa “always will be an example of sheer willpower and dedication.” He said Joe taught him “to take pride in the Jackson name and what it really means.” He ended by writing, “Fly free and until we meet again The Hawk.”

Joe’s daughter La Toya is the only one of his children to share an online tribute so far. She wrote that her dad “made us one of the most famous families in the world” and she was “extremely appreciative of that.”

She also shared a happy memory of him.

Randy Jackson Jr., one of Jackson’s grandsons (Randy’s son), shared a real throwback — Joe next to some gold records.

Jackon’s grandson and son of Tito Jackson, Taj Jackson, also shared a heartfelt tribute.

He also slammed those making insensitive remarks about Jackson’s death.

Taj’s wife, Thayana Jackson, offered her condolences.

T.J. Jackson, another of Tito’s sons, thanked Joe for protecting his family over the years.

Aspiring singer Jaafar Jackson, whose father is Jermaine, recognized his grandfather’s legacy.

Another grandchild, Yashi Brown (Rebbie Jackson’s daughter), was thinking, “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you.”

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