CNN – Joe Bonsall, who left the legendary singing group The Oak Ridge Boys after 50 years in January due to a neuromuscular disorder, has died, his management team announced Tuesday.
He was 76.
Bonsall died from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), according to his representatives.
Bonsall announced on social media about six months ago that he was leaving the group.
“I will never forget and for those of you who have been constantly holding me up in prayer I thank you and ask for you to keep on praying,” he added.
“Joe loved to sing. He loved to read. He loved to write. He loved to play banjo. He loved working on the farm. And he loved the Philadelphia Phillies. But Jesus and his family always came first—and we will see him again on the Promised Day.”
The country and gospel quartet, originally founded in 1943 out of Tennessee, are known for songs including “Elvira” and “American Made.” Bonsall joined the group in 1973.
During his long career, Bonsall became a member of the Grand Ole Opry and was inducted into the Philadelphia Music Hall of Fame, the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and the Country Music Hall of Fame …
