Joe Bonsall The Oak Ridge Boys' star cause of death and tributes

Joe Bonsall, the tenor in The Oak Ridge Boys sadly passed away on Tuesday aged 76, in Hendersonville, Tenn. (July 9) from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, is a disease that damages nerve cells and connections that are necessary to control muscles for movements such as walking, talking and breathing. Most patients die within three to five years of a diagnosis. Following Joe Bonsall death, The Oak Ridge Boys and his family announced on website and social media accounts. The statement reads, Joe loved to sing. He loved to read. He loved to write,” the statement read. “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.” The statement continues: "Many of you know I have been battling a slow onset (over 4 years now) of a neuromuscular disorder. I am now to a point that walking is impossible so I have basically retired from the road. It has just gotten too difficult." The statement ends. At the beginning of the year. Bonsall announced his retirement from touring after his health has worsen but despite his absence, the group honoured him by continuing their farewell tour. Joe Bonsall joined the Oak Ridge Boys in 1973, after leaving the Keystones. The group, originally formed in the 1940s, enjoyed major success in the 1980s with hits like "Elvira," "Bobbie Sue," and "American Made." "Elvira" became a massive crossover hit, reaching No. 1 on the country chart and No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. Bonsall, a member for 50 years, was known for his energetic performances and clear tenor voice. He was inducted into the Philadelphia Music Hall of Fame, Gospel Music Hall of Fame, Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and Country Music Hall of Fame. Kyle Young of the Country Music Hall of Fame praised Bonsall as the "sparkplug" of the group, who always energized audiences. Bonsall is survived by his wife, Mary Ann; daughters Jennifer and Sabrina; sister Nancy; granddaughter Breanne; grandson Luke; and great grandsons, Chance and Grey. Following Joe Bonsall many have payed tribute, John Rich of country music duo Big & Rich shared a remembrance on X. Country music is crying today,” he wrote. “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.” Country musician Travis Tritt also posted a tribute to Bonsall on X, writing, “Joe had amazing talent and a wonderful personality and he will be missed terribly by everyone who knew him.” We send our deepest condolences to Joe's family and we request you to give them prayers. #JoeBonsall #JoeBonsalldeath #theOakRidgeBoys Thank you for watching, and please don't forget to subscribe.

Added 3 Jun 2026