CLEVELAND -- Cleveland area R&B artist Gerald Levert died Friday of an apparent heart attack at the age of 40.

A preliminary report from the Geauga County coroner showed that Levert suffered from mild to moderate heart disease. However, further testing will still be done to see if anything else contributed to his death.

Levert died at his Newbury home, his record label, Atlantic Records, confirmed. He was taken to University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center in Chardon, a hospital spokesman said.

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A statement on Levert's Web site read, "We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Gerald Levert. The family asks that you keep Gerald in your prayers, hearts and minds. He will truly be missed."

He was the son of Eddie Levert, a founding member of The O'Jays, a longtime R&B group.

Levert first gained fame in 1986 as a member of the R&B trio LeVert, which also included his brother, Sean, and childhood friend Marc Gordon. They quickly racked up hits like "(Pop, Pop, Pop, Pop) Goes My Mind," "Casanova," and "Baby I'm Ready."

He began his solo recording career in 1991.

Levert was known for his sensual and romantic songs. Though he was successful as a solo singer, in 1997 he got into group mode again -- joining with R&B singers Johnny Gill and Keith Sweat for the supergroup of LSG. The self-titled album sold more than 2 million copies, and their hits included the sensual "My Body." Levert also worked with other artists as a songwriter and producer.

His most recent album was 2005's "Voices."

Levert had four children.

There was no immediate word on funeral arrangements.