THE Oak Ridge Boys’ band member Joe Bonsall has died at the age of 76.
The Hendersonville, Tennessee native passed away on July 9 from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS, is an incurable neuromuscular disease that affects voluntary muscles in the body.
Joe leaves behind his wife, Mary Ann, daughters Jennifer and Sabrina, two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
“Joseph is also the author of 11 books including his latest, a memoir entitled I See Myself, which releases in November,” a release stated from a spokesperson in the Bonsall family.
“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,” it continued.
The singer is preceded in death by his parents Lillie Bonsall and Joseph S. Bonsall Sr.
SLOWING IT DOWN
Joe first informed fans of his health situation in January of this year after battling the neuromuscular disorder over the past four years.
At the same time, he also announced his retirement from touring.
“Many of you know I have been battling a slow onset (over four years now) of a neuromuscular disorder,” he revealed in a press release.
“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,” Joe continued.
“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,” he concluded.
JOE’S SUCCESSES
Joe joined the popular country music group The Oak Ridge Boys in 1973.
The group also includes members William Lee Golden, Richard Sterban, and Duane Allen.
The quartet, which originally started in 1943, went on to win five Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015.
Some of the band’s hit songs include Elvira, Come On In, Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight, and Bobbie Sue.
Along with Joe’s addition to the gospel group, he was a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
The musician was also inducted into the Philadelphia Music Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.
Joe’s 11th book, a memoir titled I See Myself, will be released in November.
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