Joe Bonsall, a member of the Oak Ridge Boys, died Tuesday at the age of 76.
NBC News reported Bonsall died from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) — also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, according to a statement from representatives of his family.
“Joe loved to sing. He loved to read. He loved to write,” according to the statement. “He loved to play banjo. He loved working on the farm. And he loved the Philadelphia Phillies. But Jesus and his family always came first — and we will see him again on the Promised Day.”
Bonsall was a native of Philadelphia and resided in Hendersonville, Tennessee.
Bonsall, who joined the Oak Ridge Boys in 1973, was a part of the band during its heyday with hits such as “Elvira,”“Bobbie Sue” and “American Made.”
“Elvira” reached No. 1 on the country chart and No. 5 on Billboard’s all-genre Hot 100.
The Oak Ridge Boys started touring in September 2023, but Bonsall announced his retirement in January.
He said touring was too difficult for him due to his battle with ALS.
“I am now at a point where walking is impossible, so I have basically retired from the road. It has just gotten too difficult,” Bonsall said when he retired. “It has been a great 50 years, and I am thankful to all the Oak Ridge Boys, band, crew, and staff for the constant love and support shown to me through it all. I will never forget, and for those of you who have been constantly holding me up in prayer, I thank you and ask for you to keep on praying.”
While part of the Oak Ridge Boys, Bonsall was a member of the Grand Ole Opry, was inducted into the Philadelphia Music Hall of Fame, the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Country stars John Rich and Travis Tritt remembered Bonsall on X, formerly Twitter
“We lost the great Joe Bonsall of the @oakridgeboys and country music is crying today. Joe was a real friend, and someone I looked up to not only as an artist, but as a man. He’s left a legacy of incredible music, and endless accounts of his kind heartedness. #RIPJoeBonsall,” Rich wrote.
“Joe had amazing talent and a wonderful personality and he will be missed terribly by everyone who knew him. Joe is with our Lord Jesus now and that brings me some comfort. My heartfelt condolences go out to Joe’s wife, Mary Ann, his children and all his extended family. RIP,” Tritt posted.
