Joseph Sloan Bonsall Jr., known as Joe Bonsall, was born on May 18, 1948, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He grew up in a close-knit family, with his parents and sister. His father, Joseph Sloan Bonsall Sr., served in the United States Army during World War II, which had a significant impact on Joe’s upbringing, instilling in him values of patriotism and resilience.
Joe’s early life was marked by a strong affinity for music, particularly country and gospel, which were staples in his household. Bonsall’s formal education included attending Northeast High School in Philadelphia, where he was an active participant in various musical activities.
His passion for music was evident from a young age, and he pursued it vigorously, although there is limited detailed information available about his post-secondary education. His musical talent and commitment soon paved the way for his professional career. Bonsall left his gospel group the Keystones in 1973 to join the Oak Ridge Boys,
a country and gospel vocal quartet that would become one of the most iconic groups in country music history. His addition to the group, replacing William Lee Golden who had temporarily left, marked a new era for The Oak Ridge Boys. Bonsall’s distinctive tenor voice and energetic stage presence helped the group achieve enormous success. The Oak Ridge Boys are best known for hits like “Elvira,” “Bobbie Sue,” and “American Made.”
Their harmonious blend of country, gospel, and pop earned them numerous awards, including Grammy Awards, Country Music Association Awards, and Academy of Country Music Awards. Additionally, Bonsall is an accomplished author, having written several books that reflect his interests and life experiences, including “G.I. Joe and Lillie: Remembering a Life of Love and Loyalty,” a tribute to his parents.
Joe Bonsall Books
- “G.I. Joe and Lillie: Remembering a Life of Love and Loyalty” (2003) – A tribute to his parents, highlighting their love story and his father’s military service.
- “From My Perspective” (2005) – A collection of stories and reflections on life, faith, and his career with The Oak Ridge Boys.
- “Christmas Miracles” (2006) – Co-authored with other writers, this book features inspiring Christmas stories.
- “An Inconvenient Christmas” (2008) – A heartwarming Christmas story that captures the spirit of the holiday season.
- “From My Perspective II” (2010) – A follow-up to his first collection, offering more insights and anecdotes from his life.
- “Joe Bonsall’s Book of Wisdom” (2012) – A compilation of thoughts and quotes that provide wisdom and inspiration.
- “On the Road with The Oak Ridge Boys: Forty Years of Untold Stories and Adventures” (2015) – Co-authored with the other members of The Oak Ridge Boys, this book shares behind-the-scenes stories from their long career.
- “The Oak Ridge Boys: An American Journey” (2017) – A detailed look at the history and impact of The Oak Ridge Boys.
- “I See Me” (2018) – A children’s book that teaches the importance of self-worth and confidence.
- “The Oak Ridge Boys: Days Go By” (2020) – A memoir that delves into the personal and professional lives of The Oak Ridge Boys.
- “The Oak Ridge Boys: Stories from the Road” (2022) – A collection of memorable and entertaining stories from their tours and performances.
Country music is crying today. Joe was a real friend, and someone I looked up to not only as an artist, but as a man. He’s left a legacy of incredible music, and endless accounts of his kind heartedness.
John Rich – of country music duo Big & Rich
Throughout his career, Joe Bonsall has been an advocate for various causes, particularly those related to veterans and military families, a nod to his father’s military service. He has used his platform to raise awareness and support for these causes, demonstrating a commitment to giving back to the community. In summary, Joe Bonsall’s life and career are marked by a deep passion for music, a commitment to his roots, and a dedication to service.
Joe had amazing talent and a wonderful personality and he will be missed terribly by everyone who knew him.
Travis Tritt
He had a solo record in 1986 with Sawyer Brown, “Out Goin’ Cattin'”, whiched reached US Country #11. His contributions to The Oak Ridge Boys have left an indelible mark on country music, while his solo endeavors and advocacy work reflect a multifaceted and compassionate individual. Joseph S. Bonsall (76) of Hendersonville, Tennessee passed on to Glory on July 9, 2024, from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
His tenor voice was high and clear, and his jovial spirit always provided a jolt of energy, immediately rousing audiences to come on in and take a load off. He certainly lightened our cares every time he sang.
Kyle Young – CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
He leaves behind his precious wife, Mary Ann, daughters Jennifer and Sabrina, granddaughter Breanne, grandson Luke, two great grandsons, Chance and Grey, and a sister, Nancy. He is preceded in death by his parents Joseph S. Bonsall Sr. and Lillie Bonsall.
Further Reading
Sources
- “The Oak Ridge Boys Official Website.” oakridgeboys.com.
- “Joe Bonsall Biography.” IMDb. imdb.com.
- “Country Music Hall of Fame: The Oak Ridge Boys.” countrymusichalloffame.org.
- Joe Bonsall https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Bonsall
- ABC News “Joe Bonsall, celebrated tenor in the country and gospel group the Oak Ridge Boys, dies at 76” https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/joe-bonsall-celebrated-tenor-country-gospel-group-oak-111785503
- The Oak Ridge Boys discography https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Oak_Ridge_Boys_discography
- The Oak Ridge Boys https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Oak_Ridge_Boys
