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Blake Shelton recently penned a touching tribute to his dear friend Joe Bonsall, who passed away. Joe, a key member of the country and gospel band The Oak Ridge Boys, played in the band from 1973 to 2024.
The 48-year-old Blake shared a heartfelt moment on his Instagram Stories, accompanied by a picture of himself performing alongside The Oak Ridge Boys. The date and location of the photo remain unknown.
Blake expressed his deep sorrow, saying, “I’m so sad to hear about the death of my friend Joe Bonsall.” He fondly remembered Joe’s ever-present smile and zest for life.
“He loved singing more than anyone I’ve ever met,” Blake reflected. He sent his thoughts and prayers to Joe’s family and bandmates, emphasizing the significant loss.
Blake and The Oak Ridge Boys collaborated on the song “Doing It to Country Songs” in 2016.
Joe Bonsall’s death was due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, a progressive neuromuscular disease that currently has no cure and affects the body’s voluntary muscles.
Fans learned about Joe’s ALS diagnosis in January 2024, although he had been battling the illness for four years. Joe is survived by his wife, Mary Ann, and their daughters, Jennifer and Sabrina. The family also includes two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
A family spokesperson shared, “Joseph was also the author of 11 books, including his most recent memoir, I See Myself, which is set to be released in November.” They highlighted his love for farming and his passion for the Philadelphia Phillies, but noted, “Jesus and his family always came first, and we will see him again on the Promised Day.”
Following his diagnosis, Joe announced his departure from The Oak Ridge Boys.
TIMES WITH THE BAND
The Oak Ridge Boys, consisting of Joe Bonsall, William Lee Golden, Richard Sterban, and Duane Allen, are renowned for hits like “Elvira,” “Come On In,” “Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight,” and “Bobbie Sue.”
In 2015, The Oak Ridge Boys were honored with induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, and they have received five Grammy Awards over the years.
Remarkably, none of the current members were part of the original lineup. The founding members included Curly Kinsey, Lon “Deacon” Freeman, Wally Fowler, and Little Johnny New.
Joe was passionate about singing, reading, writing, and playing the banjo. The band’s current tour, “American Made: The Farewell,” continues until December 8.
