Introduction
William Lee Golden Speaks Out After Heartbreaking Losses of Son and Bandmate
Country music icon William Lee Golden is facing a time of unimaginable sorrow. On July 1st, he suffered the devastating loss of his beloved son, Rusty Golden—a talented musician, songwriter, and a cherished part of the Golden musical legacy. Just days later, tragedy struck again with the passing of his longtime bandmate and dear friend, Joe Bonsall of The Oak Ridge Boys.
In a heartfelt public statement, William expressed the depth of his grief:
“This is the hardest thing ever for a father to have to face. I love my family more than anything. Rusty was a great musician, a talented songwriter, and a wonderful son. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers for the days ahead. I love you, son.”
Rusty’s passing leaves behind not only a father’s broken heart, but a silence in a family and musical legacy that once echoed with harmony and passion. He was more than a son—he was a creative force who walked closely in his father’s footsteps.
Just as William began to process the loss, he was met with more heartbreak. On July 9th, Joe Bonsall passed away, ending a musical brotherhood that spanned over 50 years. Joe, along with William Lee Golden, Duane Allen, and Richard Sterban, helped define the sound of The Oak Ridge Boys—a quartet known for their rich harmonies and timeless country hits that touched fans around the globe.
On social media, William shared a photo of Joe with a simple but profound caption:
“Sadness continues. This has been a week of sadness with the loss of my son Rusty Golden and now the loss of our brother and our partner of over 50 years, Joe Bonsall. Thankfully, we have the memories made and the songs that we’ve sung together to get us through. It gives me comfort to know that Joe and Rusty are together again. Our prayers are with his family.”
These losses go far beyond the professional sphere—they are personal wounds that no amount of fame or success can mend. And yet, in the midst of heartbreak, there is a thread of comfort: the enduring power of music, memory, and brotherhood. The Oak Ridge Boys have stood strong through many trials, and today, their bond will be tested more than ever.
May William Lee Golden find strength in the love of his family, the loyalty of his fans, and the eternal echo of the songs he created with those he lost. Though Rusty and Joe may be gone, their spirits live on—in every harmony, every lyric, and every heart they’ve touched.