Nedra Talley Ross, the last surviving member of the legendary 1960s girl group The Ronettes, has died at the age of 80. She passed away on Sunday morning, according to a statement shared by her daughter.
Her family confirmed she died peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones. In a Facebook post, her daughter wrote that Ross “went home to be with the Lord” and was “safe in her own bed… knowing she was loved.”
The official page of The Ronettes also paid tribute, describing her as “a light to those who knew and loved her” and praising her lasting contribution to music. The statement highlighted how her voice, style, and presence helped shape the group’s identity and influence.
Born in New York City in 1946, Ross formed The Ronettes in 1959 alongside her cousins Ronnie Spector and Estelle Bennett. The group initially performed under different names before becoming widely known after signing with producer Phil Spector.
Their breakthrough came in 1963 with the hit single “Be My Baby,” which became one of the defining songs of the era. The Ronettes went on to release other successful tracks including “Baby I Love You,” “Walking in the Rain,” and “Do I Love You?”
The group became internationally recognised, performing alongside major acts such as The Rolling Stones and The Beatles. They also served as opening performers during The Beatles’ final U.S. tour in 1966.
The Ronettes disbanded in 1967, but their influence on pop and rock music continued for decades. In 2007, they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, with guitarist Keith Richards delivering an emotional tribute to their legacy.
At the induction ceremony, Ross reflected on the group’s early struggles and success, thanking her family, faith, and supporters for helping them navigate the challenges of the music industry.
Following her death, fans and fellow musicians have been remembering Ross as part of one of the most influential female vocal groups in music history.
