Richard Sterban—whose deep, resonant bass helped immortalize the Oak Ridge Boys’ 1981 hit “Elvira”—died on Saturday (November 14) in Hendersonville, Tennessee. He was 83 years old.
According to a statement from Sterban’s family—per Deadline—the Country Music Hall of Famer’s death was the result of complications from bronchitis and pneumonia “after fighting a long, hard battle with cancer.”
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Richard Sterban of The Oak Ridge Boys. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, bandmates, and all who knew and loved him. https://t.co/fXMLmjZIhl
— CMA Country Music (@CountryMusic) November 14, 2026
“We appreciate all of your love, support, and prayers,” Sterban’s family said in a statement. “Please continue to lift us up in this difficult time, we find comfort knowing that he is currently face to face with Jesus.”
[RELATED: The Oak Ridge Boys’ Richard Sterban Reveals Cancer Diagnosis]
Born April 24, 1943 in Camden, New Jersey, Richard Sterban stepped away from touring with Elvis Presley to join the Oak Ridge Boys in 1972. He remained with the group until September 2025, when he stepped back from performing as he battled pancreatic cancer.
Featured image by Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The post Oak Ridge Boys’ Richard Sterban, Voice Behind “Elvira,” Dead at 83: Country Legend Who Left Elvis Presley to Join the Group appeared first on American Songwriter.
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