Last surviving member of The Ronettes dies at 80 as tributes flood in for singer

Olivia Gantzer
Mon, 27 Apr 2026 08:00:57 +0000

Nedra Talley Ross, the last surviving member of the 1960s girl group The Ronettes, has died at the age of 80.

Ms Talley Ross performed in The Ronettes alongside her cousins Ronnie Spector and Estelle Bennett and the group scored huge hits with songs including Be My Baby, Walking in the Rain, Baby, I Love You and (The Best Part of) Breakin’ Up.

The news of the singer’s death was shared on the group’s Instagram account, saying: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Nedra Talley Ross’ passing. She was a light to those who knew and loved her.

"As a founding member of The Ronettes, along with her beloved cousins Ronnie and Estelle, Nedra’s voice, style and spirit helped define a sound that would change music.

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"Her contribution to the group’s story and their defining influence will live forever.

"Rest peacefully dear Nedra. Thanks for the magic."

Ms Talley Ross' daughter, Nedra K Ross, also shared the news of her mother's death on Facebook.

She wrote: "At approximately 8:30 this morning our mother Nedra Talley Ross went home to be with the Lord.

"She was safe in her own bed at home with her family close, knowing she was loved. Thank you Lord.

"There will be a Celebration of Life in the future and I will post information when plans have been confirmed."

Born on January 27, 1946, Ms Talley Ross grew up in Spanish Harlem alongside her cousins, sisters Veronica "Ronnie" Spector and Estelle Bennett.

The trio established The Ronettes in the late 1950s, initially performing at local events including bar mitzvahs and school functions.

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Their fortunes transformed when producer Phil Spector discovered them, leading to a contract with his Philles Records label in 1963.

The group swiftly became one of the most distinctive acts of the era, blending pop, rhythm and blues, and rock and roll into a sound that captivated audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.

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