Blake Shelton recently shared an emotional tribute to his friend Joe Bonsall following his passing. Joe was a cherished member of The Oak Ridge Boys, a renowned country and gospel group, from 1973 until his death in 2024.

In a heartfelt post on his Instagram Stories, Blake expressed his deep sadness, saying, “I’m heartbroken to hear of my friend Joe Bonsall’s death. I have never seen Joe without a smile on his face and a genuine one at that.” Blake went on to highlight Joe’s passion for music, stating, “He loved singing more than anyone I’ve ever met.”

Blake offered his condolences to Joe’s family and his brothers in The Oak Ridge Boys, saying, “His family and his brothers at @theoakridgeboys are in my prayers. We have all lost someone significant today.” The connection between Blake and The Oak Ridge Boys was well-established, with the two having collaborated on the song “Doing It to Country Songs” in 2016.

Joe’s death was attributed to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, a devastating neuromuscular disorder with no cure. This illness affects the voluntary muscles, and Joe’s battle with it had been private until January 2024, when fans learned of his condition. Joe had been ill for four years before his passing.

Blake, now 48, also shared a photo of himself performing live with The Oak Ridge Boys, although the exact time and place of the photo remain unknown.

Joe Bonsall was more than just a musician; he was a devoted family man. He leaves behind his wife, Mary Ann, their two daughters, Jennifer and Sabrina, two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Joe’s legacy also includes his work as an author. He wrote 11 books, with his latest memoir, I See Myself, set to be released in November 2024.

The Bonsall family released a statement emphasizing Joe’s deep love for his family and his faith, stating, “Joseph had a great time throughout his stay on the farm. He was a passionate fan of the Philadelphia Phillies. But Jesus and his family always came first, and we will see him again on the Promised Day.”

Joe was a key member of The Oak Ridge Boys, alongside Richard Sterban, Duane Allen, and William Lee Golden. The band became famous for hits like “Elvira,” “Come On In,” “Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight,” and “Bobbie Sue.” In 2015, The Oak Ridge Boys were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, a testament to their impact on the music industry.

Despite the loss of all original members over the years, The Oak Ridge Boys continued to perform and inspire. Joe’s love for singing, his enthusiasm for reading, and his joy in playing the banjo made him a cherished figure in the band and among fans.

The Oak Ridge Boys are currently on their farewell tour, American Made: The Farewell Tour, which will run until December 8, 2024. While the band will continue to perform, the absence of Joe Bonsall will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.