Blake Shelton shared an emotional tribute to his friend Joe Bonsall upon his passing. Joe was a member of The Oak Ridge Boys from 1973 to 2024. Blake posted a photo of them performing together and wrote, “I’m heartbroken to hear of my friend Joe Bonsall’s death. I have never seen Joe without a genuine smile on his face.” He added, “He loved singing more than anyone I’ve ever met.”
Joe passed away from Lou Gehrig’s disease, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This incurable neuromuscular disorder affects the body’s voluntary muscles. Fans learned about his illness in January 2024, four years after his diagnosis.
Joe is survived by his wife Mary Ann, two daughters, two grandkids, and two great-grandchildren. He was also an author of 11 books, with his memoir, “I See Myself,” set for release in November. The Bonsall family said, “But Jesus and his family always came first, and we will see him again on the Promised Day.”
The Oak Ridge Boys, inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015, include Richard Sterban, Duane Allen, and William Lee Golden. Joe’s contributions and his joyful spirit will be greatly missed.
