Joe Bonsall, longtime tenor in country and gospel quartet the Oak Ridge Boys, dies at 76

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As a devoted cinema-goer and music enthusiast, I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Joe Bonsall, the tenor singer who dedicated over five decades to the iconic country and gospel quartet, the Oak Ridge Boys. His untimely death at 76 due to complications from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a great loss not just to the music industry, but also to his fans who have been moved by his soulful voice and indomitable spirit for generations.

I’m deeply saddened to share that Joe Bonsall, the beloved singer and dedicatee of over five decades to the esteemed country and gospel quartet, the Oak Ridge Boys, has passed away at the age of 76.

The tenor’s official website declared that Bonsall passed away on Tuesday due to complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), which is a neurodegenerative condition often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease. In January, Bonsall publicly announced his retirement from the Oak Ridge Boys because of a neuromuscular disorder.

He expressed in a January statement on X that due to his current condition, walking has become an unachievable task for him, effectively ending his journeys, as he found it excessively challenging.

Fifty years ago, he expressed his gratitude: “It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m deeply appreciative of the Oak Ridge Boys band team and employees for their unwavering affection and care throughout.”

The Oak Ridge Boys announced Bonsall’s passing on their social media channels by sharing an image of the singer along with a statement.

Thirty years after Oak Ridge Boys were formed in 1943, Bonsall became a part of this renowned band famous for hits like “Elvira” and “Bobbie Sue.” This occurred following a performance with the Keystones. During the ’70s and ’80s, when the group reached widespread success, he was an essential member. The Tennessee-based ensemble rose to fame in gospel communities and worked with notables such as Johnny Cash, Ray Charles, Brenda Lee, and Paul Simon.

In 1971, the gospel music group Oak Ridge Boys received their first Grammy Award in that category. Later on, they were honored with an additional four Grammys. One of these awards came for their song “Elvira” in 1982. Throughout their career, they have earned a total of 23 Grammy nominations.

“Bonsall made this statement to The Times in 1996 following a show in Glendale: ‘We refuse to disappear. We may no longer be young, but we’re still delivering the rock.'”

As a passionate film buff, I’d put it this way: I, being a cherished member of the Grand Ole Opry, have been honored with inductions into several prestigious halls of fame. According to my site, I’ve earned a spot in 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.

In 2015, the Country Music Hall of Fame welcomed a new musician into its ranks, coinciding with the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling that granted same-sex couples the constitutional right to marry in the US. Following this decision, Bonsall expressed disappointment, stating, “It’s unfortunate for those who value spirituality and principles based on the Bible.” His comments sparked significant criticism.

Before he passed away, Bonsall continually traveled with The Oak Ridge Boys for nearly every year, with the exception of their break during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Last year, Bonsall disclosed that he had experienced pulmonary embolisms in 2022. He shared this news with his followers, expressing how close he came to death just a week prior, stating, “I came very close to passing away last weekend.”

As a passionate film enthusiast, I’d put it this way: In September 2023, the Oak Ridge Boys announced their American Made Farewell Tour, marking the beginning of the end of an era for country music fans. With founding member Duane Allen retiring, singer-songwriter Ben James stepped up to take his place on stage. It’s a bittersweet moment as we bid farewell to the legacy of the Oak Ridge Boys, but at the same time, welcome the fresh energy and talent that Ben James brings to the table.

Prior to his passing, Bonsall wrote 11 books; among them was his forthcoming memoir, “I See Myself,” scheduled for release in November. According to his website, music, family, and faith held great significance in Bonsall’s life.

“Joe had a passion for singing, reading, writing, and playing the banjo. He cherished the time spent on the farm and rooting for the Philadelphia Phillies. However, nothing gave him greater joy than being with Jesus and his loved ones. We will be reunited with him on the day promised in the faith.”

I’m here to share that I have the sad news that Bonsall was born on May 18, 1948, in Philadelphia. He leaves behind his cherished wife, Mary Ann, as well as his two dear daughters, Jennifer and Sabrina. Their beautiful grandchildren, Breanne and Luke, bring him immense joy, along with his two great-grandsons, Chance and Grey. His loving sister, Nancy, remains a vital part of his family’s support network. We are deeply saddened to share that he is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Joseph S. Bonsall Sr. and Lillie Bonsall.

At Bonsall’s preference, there won’t be a funeral arranged by the family. Instead, those who wish to pay their respects can make charitable contributions in his memory to either the ALS Association or the Vanderbilt Medical Center for ALS and Neuroscience Research.

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2024-07-18 20:45