Mary Mary siblings Tina and Erica Campbell are in mourning following the death of their father.

Eddie A. Atkins, Jr. lost his battle with cancer on Wednesday (26Jun13) at the age of 66.

In a post on Twitter.com, the group writes, "Our hearts are heavy but we can rejoice knowing our father knew we Loved him RIP Elder Eddie A Atkins Jr. Rest in the arms of Jesus Daddy."

The family plans to hold a funeral service in his honour next week (02Jul13) and gospel star Erica tells Essence.com her dad will be greatly missed.

She says, "It's really hard to deal with losing my dad. He was truly the strength of our family. And even though him and my mum were not together anymore... they stood hand-and-hand and they stood side-by-side to support their children."