While an accomplished author, most remember Joe Bonsall as a member of the Oak Ridge Boys. Joining the group back in 1973, the singer stayed with the band for five decades before his health caused him to step away. Over the last few years, Bonsall suffered from several health issues, including a pulmonary embolism. He even required to be seated when he performed on tour with the Oak Ridge Boys. Sadly, on July 9, 2024, Bonsall passed away at 76. And on Wednesday, the band decided to honor the legacy of their late friend with a touching tribute.
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Back in 2015, Bonsall, alongside the Oak Ridge Boys, received the special honor of being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Thankful for his contributions to the group, the band shared a picture on their Twitter page. The caption read, “One in a million. Sending our love to Joe’s family on this difficult anniversary. Please post your favorite Joe song.”
Joe Bonsall’s Wife Thanks Fans For Their Continued Support
Gaining over 13,000 views, fans shared their love for Bonsall. But among all the comments, Bonsall’s personal account commented, thanking fans for their prayers and well wishes. “Thank you all for your prayers and well wishes. Joe loved you all and his family loves you all. Joe ‘Is in the better place’ . Joe is with his Lord! Mary”
Other fans offered their favorite songs from Bonsall. “’Elvira’ will always be my favorite song. Grandad played it for me when I was 3 and I was hooked. Joe had so many wonderful performances. I think one of his absolute best vocally was ‘In My Own Crazy Way’ from American Dreams. Amazing talent.”
Another loss impacted the Oak Ridge Boys when singer Duane Allen lost his wife the same year. Mourning the death of his partner, the singer explained how he removed himself from friends and family after her passing.
Not wanting the grief to consume him, Allen eventually found his way back to the stage. “I just started my 60th year with the Oak Ridge Boys, and I have no one to come home to.”
Considering the fans his family now, Allen had no interest in retiring just yet. And according to the singer, there wasn’t a better group of guys to share the stage with than the Oak Ridge Boys.
(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images)
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