Roni Stoneman, a country musician known as the 'First Lady of the Banjo' and a familiar face on television's 'Hee Haw,' has passed away at the age of 85. No cause of death has been disclosed.
Stoneman, born into a family deeply rooted in country music, was the second youngest of 23 children. She gained fame for her role on 'Hee Haw' where she showcased her banjo skills and comedic talents for 18 years.
Her autobiography, 'Pressing On: The Roni Stoneman Story,' published in 2007, detailed her journey from a challenging Appalachian childhood to becoming a respected musician and beloved entertainer. The memoir also highlighted her encounters with country music legends like Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash, and Patsy Cline.
Stoneman's musical prowess was evident in her innovative banjo picking style and her ability to captivate audiences with her performances. She was part of the renowned Stoneman Family band, which won a CMA Award in 1967 for vocal group of the year.
Despite facing health challenges like arthritis, Stoneman's dedication to her craft led her to unconventional solutions, such as gluing picks onto her fingers to continue playing. Her resilience and passion for music remained unwavering throughout her career.
Even in her later years, Stoneman continued to share her musical talents, touring and recording with her sister, Donna Stoneman. Her impact on the country music scene and her legacy as a trailblazing banjo player will be remembered by fans and fellow musicians alike.
