The Grammy-nominated R&B and soul singer/songwriter, who became involved in local politics in Chicago later in life, reportedly had Parkinson's.

Jerry Butler, a premier soul singer of the 1960s and after whose rich, intimate baritone graced such hits as “For Your Precious Love,” “Only the Strong Survive” and “Make It Easy On Yourself,” has died at age 85.

Most known for his hits "For Your Precious Love" and "Only The Strong Survive" Butler had two Grammy nominations. The soul singer had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease before his death.