Richard Sterban, a longtime member of The Oak Ridge Boys, has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
The 82-year-old musician shared his diagnosis in a statement posted to the group’s website Thursday, Sept. 25.
“In March of this year, I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer,” Sterban wrote. “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.”
Sterban, who has been with The Oak Ridge Boys since 1972, added that “Most days I’m feeling very good, and I hope to be back out on the road in several months.”
He went on to thank everyone, especially the fans, for their support.
“I would appreciate your continued prayers,” Sterban wrote.
Sterban, who sings bass for The Oak Ridge Boys, is arguably best known for his resounding vocals heard on songs such as “Elvira,” one of the group’s biggest hits.
The legendary group recorded “Elvira” for their 1981 album “Fancy Free.” The song climbed to No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart in May of that year, and reached No. 5 on the Hot 100 chart two months later.
The Oak Ridge Boys won a Grammy Award in 1982 for “Elvira,” in the category of Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocal. The song also became a platinum-selling single.
“Elvira” continues as a beloved staple in the band’s concerts, along with songs such as “Bobbie Sue,” “Thank God For Kids,” “American Made,” “Y’All Come Back Saloon” and more.
Sterban stopped touring with the band in spring 2025. Although fans were aware he was dealing with health issues, Sterban’s cancer diagnosis was not revealed until Thursday.
Singers Aaron McCune and Tim Duncan have been filling in for Sterban on tour. His last appearance with the Oak Ridge Boys was at the ACM Awards on May 8.
The Oak Ridge Boys originally planned to retire after they first announced their “American Made: Farewell Tour” in 2024. However, the band extended the tour earlier this year.
The Oak Ridge Boys now has shows scheduled through the end of 2025, including several “American Made Christmas” shows in December, an annual tradition for the band. It is unclear if Sterban will be joining them on those shows.
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