Blake Shelton Remembers Friend Joe Bonsall in Heartfelt Tribute

Blake Shelton shared an emotional tribute to his longtime friend, Joe Bonsall, after the news of his passing. Joe was a beloved member of The Oak Ridge Boys, a legendary country and gospel group, from 1973 until 2024.

On Tuesday, Blake, who’s now 48, posted a touching photo of himself performing alongside The Oak Ridge Boys. While the exact date and location of the photo are unknown, the image captured a moment of camaraderie between Blake and the group.

Blake expressed his sorrow on Instagram Stories, writing, “I’m heartbroken to hear of my friend Joe Bonsall’s death. I never saw Joe without a smile on his face—a genuine smile. He loved singing more than anyone I’ve ever met.”

He added, “My prayers go out to his brothers at @theoakridgeboys and his family. Today, we’ve all lost someone truly special.”

Blake and The Oak Ridge Boys had collaborated in the past, most notably on the song “Doing It to Country Songs” in 2016.

Joe Bonsall passed away from Lou Gehrig’s disease, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a devastating neuromuscular disorder that affects voluntary muscles. Unfortunately, there is no cure for ALS. Fans first learned about Joe’s illness in January 2024, four years after he was diagnosed.

Joe leaves behind his wife Mary Ann, their two daughters Jennifer and Sabrina, two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. The Bonsall family released a statement, saying, “Joseph was not only a talented singer but also the author of 11 books, including his upcoming memoir, I See Myself, set to release in November.”

The statement also shared that Joe found joy in life on the farm and was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Phillies. However, his love for Jesus and his family always came first. “We will see him again on the Promised Day,” the family added.

Joe had announced his condition and decision to retire from the band earlier this year.

The Oak Ridge Boys, consisting of Joe, Richard Sterban, Duane Allen, and William Lee Golden, are known for hits like “Elvira,” “Come On In,” “Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight,” and “Bobbie Sue.” The band was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015 and has earned five Grammy Awards throughout their career.

Although no original members remain in the band, Joe’s passion for singing, reading, writing, and even playing the banjo left a lasting legacy. The Oak Ridge Boys’ farewell tour, American Made: The Farewell, kicked off today and will run through December 8.