Oak Ridge Boys Bass Singer Richard Sterban Dies at 83

Sterban’s family said his death followed a prolonged battle with cancer and resulted from complications of bronchitis and pneumonia. In a statement, relatives thanked fans for their “love, support, and prayers” and said their Christian faith gave them comfort. He is survived by his wife, Donna, five children, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Sterban had stopped regular touring in May 2025. He appeared with the Oak Ridge Boys at the Grand Ole Opry on January 30 and 31, 2026, singing “Elvira” as audiences gave him standing ovations, according to a February 3 statement on the band’s website. Lead singer Duane Allen described the reunion as “soul-stirring” and said having Sterban back onstage was “one of God’s greatest blessings.” The appearances were a documented comeback, but were not confirmed as his final concerts.

Before joining the Oak Ridge Boys, the New Jersey native sang with J.D. Sumner and the Stamps Quartet, which backed Elvis Presley. Sterban worked with Presley for roughly a year and a half and appeared in the 1972 concert documentary “Elvis on Tour.” Later that year, he left the backing group to join the Oak Ridge Boys, according to the band’s obituary. He remained with the quartet for more than five decades and recounted his career in the 2012 memoir “From Elvis to Elvira: My Life on Stage.”

The Oak Ridge Boys’ 1981 recording of “Elvira” reached No. 1 on Billboard’s country chart and No. 5 on the Hot 100. The group also recorded hits including “Bobbie Sue” and “American Made.” The Associated Press reported that the quartet won five Grammy Awards from 23 nominations and had 17 country chart-toppers; four Grammys came during Sterban’s tenure, including one for “Elvira.” The group entered the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015.

Sterban also appeared on selected tracks of “Buried Treasures,” released by the Oak Ridge Boys on October 30, 2026. The album announcement described it as a collection about faith, friendship, love and enduring songs. Fellow member Joe Bonsall died in July 2024.