Iconic country music group has been hit by string of heartbreaking health tragedies

Oak Ridge Boys member Richard Sterben shocked fans this week when he announced that he is battling pancreatic cancer.

Sterban has been a member of the legendary group for 53 years.

“In March of this year, I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer,” Sterban said in an announcement. “But I am under the care of the best cancer doctors in the country and, with the help of the Good Lord above, I believe I will be able to get through this.”

“I want to thank everyone, especially the fans, for your concern, and I would appreciate your continued prayers,” he added. “Most days I’m feeling very good, and I hope to be back out on the road in several months.”

Sterban’s announcement comes after the band suffered through a tragedy-filled 2024.

Singer Joe Bonsall died last July at 76.

Bonsall announced last January that he was retiring from touring with the band, and it was revealed that his death was caused by complications from Amyotrophic Lateral Scleroris (ALS).

That came just a short time after William “Rusty” Golden, the son of band member William Lee Golden, died.

Also, Norah Lee Allen, the wife of frontman Duane Allen, died back on Easter of 2024. And just hours after Allen announced his wife’s death, it was revealed that singer Richard Sterban’s wife, Donna, lost her father, too. Also, Phyllis Carr, the wife of longtime guitarist Donnie Carr, died in March.

So, it has been a heartbreaking year for the group, but if you check its social media accounts and announcements, fans have been there with plenty of prayers and well-wishes to support them through it all.