Sims is most known for her smash single, “Come Into My Life,” which peaked in both the US and UK top 10 charts. Her debut single, “All And All,” peaked at number six on the US dance chart and debuted in the UK’s top 20.

Family relatives posted on social media to announce Sim’s passing, but no cause of death was revealed. Sims’ reps have been contacted by NME for comment.

One of Sims’ sisters, Annette Ramsey wrote on social media: “my heart is broken” and wrote on Facebook: “I will always remember the happy times we’ve shared, the love and support you have given me will not go in vain. I Love you Big Sis RIP.”

Another of her sisters, Debbie Sims Hall described the late singer as “a beautiful soul inside and out” who “will truly be missed”.

Following a conversation with her close family on October 15, events coordinator CJ Carlos posted on Facebook “Having spoken to her immediate family tonight, it’s with a heavy heart that I post this news Joyce Sims has passed away. Joyce was an amazing singer-songwriter who had so many hits in the 80s.”

“As most of you know she was going to be one of our USA artists in Portugal next May. My heart goes out to her partner Errol and their children and close family.”

Rowetta of the Happy Mondays and Dave Haslam, called Sims “an incredibly talented singer and songwriter”.