Richard Sterban, the iconic bass voice of the Oak Ridge Boys, died on Saturday in Hendersonville, Tennessee. He was 83 years old. His passing followed a recent battle with cancer and complications arising from bronchitis and pneumonia.
Both the late singer's family and the band confirmed the news. In a statement, his family expressed gratitude for the love and support they have received. They asked fans to continue their prayers and shared that they find comfort in the belief that he is now in the presence of Jesus.
Sterban became an integral part of the Oak Ridge Boys in 1972. He joined the group as its bass vocalist after previous member Noel Fox departed. Together with lead singer Duane Allen, baritone William Lee Golden, and tenor Joe Bonsall, he completed the lineup of the gospel quartet. His deep voice served as the foundation for the group's celebrated four-part harmonies.
The Oak Ridge Boys achieved significant success under Sterban's tenure. The group placed 34 singles in the country Top 10, with 17 of those reaching the number one spot. They collected numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards, Country Music Association awards, and Academy of Country Music awards. The quartet also became members of the Grand Ole Opry, the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. His contribution was particularly prominent on the hit song 'Elvira.'
Before his time with the Oak Ridge Boys, Sterban had an active career in gospel music. He helped found the group known as the Keystones. Later, he joined J.D. Sumner and the Stamps Quartet. During that period, Elvis Presley hired the Stamps to provide backing vocals for him over a span of approximately one and a half years.
Born on April 24, 1943, in Camden, New Jersey, Sterban displayed a talent for music at a young age. He began singing in Sunday school at the age of six and performed as a tenor in his seventh-grade glee club. After graduating from Collingswood High School, he pursued higher education in music at Trenton State College.
Sterban is survived by his wife, Donna, and a large family. He leaves behind two daughters, Lauren and Tori, and three sons, Rich, Doug, and Chris. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. His mother, Victoria, his brother, Joseph, and his grandson, Zachary, predeceased him.
Funeral arrangements for the celebrated musician will be announced at a later date.
