Joe Bonsall, Grammy Award-winning tenor of the renowned country and gospel group the Oak Ridge Boys, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 76.
Bonsall succumbed to complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), as confirmed by a statement from his family’s representatives.
“Joe loved to sing. He loved to read. He loved to write,” the statement said. “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.”
Born in Philadelphia and a resident of Hendersonville, Tennessee, Bonsall left his former gospel group, the Keystones, in 1973 to join the Oak Ridge Boys. The group, founded in the 1940s, reached its peak popularity in the 1980s and beyond with hit songs like “Elvira” in 1981, “Bobbie Sue” in 1982, and “American Made” in 1983.
“Elvira” was a significant crossover success, reaching number one on the country chart and number five on Billboard’s all-genre Hot 100.
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a condition that progressively damages nerve cells needed for muscle control, affecting movements such as walking, talking, and breathing. The disease typically proves fatal within three to five years of diagnosis.
Bonsall was also an advocate against fraud. In 2019, the Oak Ridge Boys partnered with the Department of Justice and the AARP Fraud Watch Network to create a public service announcement aimed at combating elder fraud. The group lent their voices to raise awareness and share prevention tips through various platforms, including social media and concert appearances.
In September 2023, the Oak Ridge Boys began their farewell tour, which was slated to continue into 2024. However, Bonsall retired from touring in January, citing the physical challenges posed by his four-year battle with ALS. Ben James, a performer associated with Doyle Lawson and Dailey & Vincent, was named as his replacement.
“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 stated upon his retirement. “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.”