Blake Shelton is honoring the legacy of Joe Bonsall, a beloved member of the Oak Ridge Boys, who passed away this week at the age of 76 following a four-year battle with ALS.
Bonsall’s death on Tuesday, July 9, was confirmed by a spokesperson for his family and announced by the Oak Ridge Boys on social media. The news has left a significant impact on the music community, prompting many heartfelt tributes, including one from Blake Shelton.
Shelton took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a touching throwback photo of himself performing onstage with Bonsall and the Oak Ridge Boys’ remaining members: Duane Allen, William Lee Golden, and Richard Sterban.
“I’m heartbroken to hear of my friend Joe Bonsall’s passing,” Shelton, 48, wrote on Tuesday. “I’ve NEVER seen Joe when he wasn’t smiling and completely full of life. He absolutely loved singing like no one I ever met.”
The “God Gave Me You” singer continued, “My thoughts and prayers are with his family and his @oakridgeboys brothers. We all lost a special person today.”
Shelton is not alone in his sentiments. Fellow country star and The Voice coach Reba McEntire also shared a heartfelt message on Instagram. “Joe, you were a terrific entertainer, singer, and a wonderful friend!” McEntire wrote, accompanying a photo of the two posing together. “I’ll sure miss your smiling face and your bubbly personality. I can’t wait to see you again. Love, Reba.”
Bonsall leaves behind his wife, Mary Bonsall, their daughters Jennifer and Sabrina, as well as two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His passing marks a significant loss in the country music world, but his legacy and contributions to music will continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow artists alike.
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Photo Credit: Debby Wong / Shutterstock.com