Norah Lee Allen, the cherished wife of Oak Ridge Boys singer and esteemed Grand Ole Opry vocalist Duane Allen, has passed away at the age of 76 following an extended illness. Her death occurred in Nashville on Sunday, prompting an outpouring of love and condolences from family, friends, and fans.
Norah Lee Allen’s musical journey began at a young age when she joined The Stuart Sisters Trio, a family gospel ensemble based in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Later, she became a member of the esteemed Chuck Wagon Gang in 1968. It was during this time that she found love and companionship with Duane Allen, whom she married on September 22, 1969.
In 1980, Norah Lee Allen’s talent and dedication to music led her to join the Grand Ole Opry as a full-time background vocalist, where she performed for over five decades. Throughout her illustrious career, she remained humble, steadfast in her Christian principles, and deeply devoted to her family.
Norah Lee Allen’s professionalism and extraordinary ability were evident to all who knew her, whether she was performing alongside music legends or nurturing those around her. Her legacy as a musician, grandmother, mother, and wife is marked by her unwavering dedication, kindness, and grace.
Visitation and a service to honor Norah Lee Allen’s life are scheduled for Tuesday at First Baptist Church in Hendersonville, TN. Further details about memorial arrangements will be shared on Duane Allen’s Facebook page and The Oak Ridge Boys’ official social media channels. As the music community mourns the loss of Norah Lee Allen, her memory will continue to live on through the lives she touched and the music she shared with the world.
