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Joe Bonsall of the Oak Ridge Boys sadly passed away on Tuesday, July 9th. He was just 76 and died from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. This is a heartbreaking loss not just for the country music community but for his loved ones who he leaves behind. Keep reading for more details on Joe’s passing.
Joe Bonsall Of Oak Ridge Boys Dead At 76
In early 2024, Joe Bonsall shared the sad news that he was done with touring as his health was suffering. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a neuromuscular disorder that he had been dealing with for roughly four years. He shared this with his Oak Ridge Boys fans:
“Many of you know I have been battling a slow onset (over four years now) of a neuromuscular disorder. I am now at a point where walking is impossible, so I have basically retired from the road. It has just gotten too difficult. 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.”
That was clearly a hard announcement to make, not just for Joe but for the Oak Ridge Boys and for the fans to hear. However, they had to understand he gave it his all, even in his worst times, and needed to tend to himself. He did tell everyone that he wouldn’t forget all of those who were praying for him. More so, he asked that they continue to do so as he went on with his journey. Seven months later, according to The Sun, Joe passed away. A spokesperson for his family shared this:
“Joseph is also the author of 11 books including his latest, a memoir entitled I See Myself, which releases in November. Joe loved to sing. He loved to read. He loved to write. 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 Oak Ridge Boys’ Instagram shared a photo of Joe along with the statement. There will be no funeral as that is how he wanted it. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The ALS Association or to the Vanderbilt Medical Center ALS and Neuroscience Research Center.
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Fans Are Heartbroken
After seeing that Joe Bonsall had passed, fans and friends flocked to the comment section to share their thoughts and feelings:
- RIP Joe!! You were a beautiful soul and so glad to have gotten to know you ❤️ Praying for you and your family!!
- So sorry for your loss. He touched so many lives here on earth
- So glad i could see him last year. Got his autograph. Grateful 4 his music🙏🏻❤️ forever a legend
- Very sad to hear this😢RIP Joe❤️Prayers for all who knew and loved him🙏🏼
His legacy will live on through his upcoming book, wife, Mary Ann, daughters Jennifer and Sabrina, as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Plus, music is eternal. Rest in paradise, Joe. You will be missed. Do you have an Oak Ridge Boys memory? Let us know in the comments below.