The country music world is sending prayers to the Oak Ridge Boys following the death of longtime member Joe Bonsall on Tuesday.
Bonsall was 76 years old and died from complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
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The band posted an obituary on their X (formerly Twitter) account announcing his death.
“Joe was a member of the American musical group The Oak Ridge Boys for 50 years, 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 prestigious Country Music Hall of Fame,” the post read.
You can see that post and the responses here.
Heartbroken fans were quick to respond with prayers and well wishes.
“So sad,” one person wrote. “I've seen the Oaks many times and Joe always put on a great performance – funny and captivating to the audience. So sad. May he rest in peace. Condolences to the family.”
“My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to the band and his family. He will be missed,” he continued. “We know he's up in heaven singing his heart out.”
“My heart is broken,” another wrote. “Praying for his family, fellow musicians and all who loved him. #RIPJoeBonsall.”
Bonsall retired from touring with the band in January.
“I'm basically retired from touring now because I can't even walk,” he was quoted as saying. “It just got too difficult. It's been 50 amazing years. I want to thank the entire Oak Ridge Boys band crew and staff for all the love and support you've shown me throughout it all. I'll never forget, and I'm thinking of all of you who are always praying for me. Please keep them in your prayers.”
He returned to social media after his initial announcement to address his fans.
“I've been overwhelmed with the love that's been shown to me this week,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “I feel like everyone I've ever known has reached out to me and many more. I can't express enough how grateful I am, but thank you so much.”