Billy Paul

NEW YORK — Billy Paul, a jazz and soul singer best known for the No. 1 hit ballad and “Philadelphia Soul” classic “Me and Mrs. Jones,” died Sunday.

Paul, whose career spanned for more than 60 years, died at his home in Blackwood, N.J. Paul, 80, had been diagnosed recently with pancreatic cancer.

Paul was one of many singers who found success with the writing and producing team of Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff, whose Philadelphia International Records also released music by the O’Jays, Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, and Lou Rawls.

“Me and Mrs. Jones” was one of the top singles of 1972 and brought Paul a Grammy.