Remembering Joe Bonsall: A Voice of The Oak Ridge Boys and a Heart Full of Faith
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In the days leading up to his passing, Joe Bonsall, beloved tenor of The Oak Ridge Boys, shared a touching message with fans, reflecting on his decades-long career, his favorite gospel songs, and the faith that guided his life.
A Song That Followed Him Through the Years
Joe spoke fondly of the classic hymn “Because He Lives” — a song that held a special place in his heart since his early 20s when he performed it nightly with his former group, The Keystones. When Joe joined The Oak Ridge Boys in 1973, fellow member Duane Allen encouraged him to bring that same spirit to the new stage.
For years, Joe’s rendition of Because He Lives became a highlight of their concerts. He recalled a powerful memory from about six years ago, when The Oak Ridge Boys were performing on Easter Sunday at a packed casino showroom in Las Vegas. Moved by the occasion, Joe decided to speak about the true meaning of Easter to the audience. Without planning it, their longtime keyboard player began to play the introduction to Because He Lives.
Joe sang, and the moment turned electric — the crowd rose to their feet in a wave of emotion and applause. It was one of many times The Oak Ridge Boys witnessed the unifying, healing power of gospel music, even in the most unexpected places.
A Final Farewell to a Cherished Voice
Sadly, on Tuesday, Joe Bonsall passed away at the age of 76 due to complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In January, he had announced his retirement from touring, revealing that his illness had progressed to the point where he could no longer walk.
A statement shared on Joe’s official website expressed the deep love he had for his music, family, farm life, banjo playing, and his unwavering faith. “Jesus and his family always came first, and we will see him again on the promised day,” the message read.
Joe’s family has chosen to forgo a public funeral service, instead asking for donations to be made in his honor to the ALS Association or the Vanderbilt Medical Center ALS and Neuroscience Research Center. They have also requested privacy during this deeply personal time.
A Life Well Lived
Born Joseph Sloan Bonsall Jr. in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1948, Joe joined The Oak Ridge Boys in 1973 and quickly became a defining part of the group’s signature sound. Over his 51-year career, Joe contributed to the group’s incredible string of successes, with over 30 top-five country hits — nearly half of which topped the charts.
Beyond music, Joe was a man of many passions: he loved to read, write, work on his farm, and cheer on his favorite baseball team, the Philadelphia Phillies. He leaves behind his wife, two daughters, two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren — along with an immeasurable legacy in the world of country and gospel music.
A Legacy of Faith, Family, and Music
Even in his final message to fans, Joe’s words were filled with gratitude and faith. His story reminds us of the lasting impact one voice can have, not just through music, but through the love and light it shares with others.
As The Oak Ridge Boys continue their farewell tour, they carry with them the memory of their cherished tenor — a man whose life was marked by song, service, and steadfast faith.
Rest in peace, Joe Bonsall. Your voice and your spirit will live on.