Phil Balsley Biography, Age, Height,Songs, Death and Harold Reid dies at 80

Phil Balsley Biography 

Phil Balsley (full name: Philip Elwood Balsley) is a renowned American country and gospel singer, best known as a founding member and baritone vocalist of The Statler Brothers.

Over a career spanning nearly five decades, he became a key figure in country music, contributing to the group’s rich harmonies and signature sound. Before fully committing to music, he worked as a bookkeeper in his father’s sheet metal business—an early indication of his humble beginnings.

He is widely nicknamed “The Quiet One” due to his calm stage presence and reserved personality, which contrasts with the group’s lively performances.

Phil Balsley Age | Birthday

Phil Balsley was born on August 8, 1939, in Staunton, Virginia, United States.

As of 2026, he is 86 years old and celebrates his birthday every year on August 8.

Phil Balsley Height

Phil Balsley appears to be of average height based on public appearances, though his exact height is not officially documented. Details regarding his body measurements are currently unavailable and will be updated when confirmed.

Phil Balsley Family

Phil was born into a hardworking family. His father owned a sheet metal business where Phil worked as a bookkeeper before entering the music industry.

• Mother: Marjorie Balsley
• Siblings: Not publicly documented

Phil Balsley Statler Brothers Photo

Despite limited public details, his upbringing in Virginia played a significant role in shaping his musical roots, particularly in gospel and country traditions.

Phil Balsley's Wife | Wilma Balsley

Phil Balsley was married to Wilma Lee Balsley, who sadly passed away on December 28, 2014, at the age of 73.

Their marriage lasted many years and produced three children:

• Greg Balsley (late)
• Mark Balsley
• Leah

Family Tragedy

The family experienced another heartbreaking loss in June 2012 when their son Greg drowned in a tragic accident in Nags Head, North Carolina. He was 49 years old at the time and left behind a wife, children, and a grandchild. These losses had a profound emotional impact on Phil and his family.

Phil Balsley Statler Brothers

Phil Balsley is best known for his role in The Statler Brothers, formed in 1955.

The original members included:

• Don Reid – lead vocals

• Harold Reid – bass

• Phil Balsley – baritone

• Lew DeWitt – tenor/guitar (later replaced by Jimmy Fortune in 1983)

The group started with gospel music before transitioning into country. Interestingly, their name was inspired by a Statler tissue box they saw in a hotel room.

They became famous for their harmonies and storytelling songs, and they often performed as backup singers for Johnny Cash during the 1960s.

Phil remained with the group from 1955 until their retirement in 2002.

Phil Balsley Salary / Net Worth

Phil Balsley’s exact salary is not publicly disclosed.

• Estimated net worth: ranges between $900,000 and $5 million (varies by source)

His wealth primarily comes from decades of touring, album sales, and performances with The Statler Brothers.

Statler Brothers Net Worth (Members Overview)

• Don Reid – approx. $20+ million
• Harold Reid – approx. $1.7 million
• Jimmy Fortune – approx. $10+ million
• Lew DeWitt – approx. $1 million (at time of death)

Phil Balsley Songs

Some of the notable songs performed by The Statler Brothers include:

• Flowers on the Wall (1965)
• Bed of Rose’s (1970)
• Do You Know You Are My Sunshine (1978)
• Elizabeth (1983)
• Too Much on My Heart (1985)
• Class of ’57 (1972)
• I’ll Go to My Grave Loving You (1975)
• More Than a Name on a Wall (1988)

Phil Balsley Albums

• Flowers on the Wall (1966)
• The Best of the Statler Brothers (1975)
• Holy Bible: The Old Testament (1975)
• Years Ago (1981)
• An American Tradition (1989)
• Statler Brothers Live – Sold Out (1989)

Phil Balsley Home

Phil is currently retired and resides in Staunton, Virginia, where he enjoys a quiet life away from the spotlight. His continued residence there reflects his deep roots in the community where his musical journey began.

The Statler Brothers Awards

The group earned numerous accolades, including:

• 3 Grammy Awards
• 9 Country Music Association Awards
• 3 Academy of Country Music Awards
• 3 American Music Awards

They were also inducted into:

• Country Music Hall of Fame (2008)
• Gospel Music Hall of Fame (2007)

Phil Balsley News / Current Affairs

The passing of Harold Reid

Recent news surrounding Phil Balsley has largely been tied to the loss of his bandmate, Harold Reid, on April 25, 2020, at age 80, after battling kidney failure.

Harold was known for his deep bass voice, humor, and songwriting. His death marked the loss of one of the last key members of the legendary group.

 Harold’s passing marked the end of an era for The Statler Brothers, one of the most beloved vocal groups in country music history. Fans and fellow artists paid tribute to his legacy, highlighting the group’s influence on generations of musicians.

Legacy & Influence

Even after their retirement in 2002, the legacy of The Statler Brothers continues to thrive through classic country radio, streaming platforms, and ongoing recognition in the music industry.

Phil Balsley remains a respected figure in country music history, remembered for his contributions to one of the genre’s most iconic vocal groups