The country music scene is paying tribute to Toby Keith who passed away following a lengthy cancer battle at age 62.
Keith’s death was announced on his website and social media accounts stating that he passed away “peacefully” on Monday night while surrounded by family.
“He fought his fight with grace and courage,” the statement read. “Please respect the privacy of his family at this time.”
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Keith’s battle began back in 2021 when he was diagnosed with stomach cancer. In an Instagram post from June of 2022, he shared his journey with fans, revealing that he had gone under months of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. Despite the challenges, Keith remained optimistic and expressed his gratitude for the support of his family and friends.
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Country singer Zach Bryan took to social media to share his words on the loss writing, “too many ride in my old man’s car listening to Toby Keith. Really hard thing to hear. He continued, “rest in peace friend we love you.”
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John Rich wrote a post on X stating, “Waking up to the terrible news that our friend, and legend @tobykeith has passed away from cancer. He was a true Patriot, a first class singer/songwriter, and a bigger than life kind of guy. He will be greatly missed.”
Waking up to the terrible news that our friend, and legend @tobykeith has passed away from cancer. He was a true Patriot, a first class singer/songwriter, and a bigger than life kind of guy. He will be greatly missed.
— John Rich🇺🇸 (@johnrich) February 6, 2024
GRAMMY nominated singer Jelly Roll took to his Instagram story to post a photo of Keith with the message, “We covered ‘Should’ve Been a Cowboy’ at every show last year – Toby inspired millions and I was one of them RIP.”
Rest easy Toby Keith 🙏🏻🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/xGdXlS8mrS
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) February 6, 2024
Randy Houser expressed his grief, commenting, “God Bless you and Family. Hard to imagine an America without Toby Keith in it.”
Channing Wilson echoed the sentiment, saying, “Hate to hear this. You fought hard brother. Prayers for his family. RIPTK.”
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Actor Stephen Baldwin also shared his thoughts, writing, “Wow this announcement has totally taken my breath away. I’ve been praying for Toby and it is truly wonderful to know he is finally home praise Jesus.”
Dolly Parton even shared a message on her social media.
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Donald Trump Jr. wrote, “Ugh. We lost a legend this week. R.I.P Toby Keith.”
Fellow country artist Jason Aldean also wrote a post on X filled with photos of the two singers together. He stated, “Just waking up to the news of Toby Keith’s passing. Today is a sad day for Country music and its fans. Toby was a huge presence in our business and someone we all looked up to and respected. You and your music will be forever remembered big man.”
Just waking up to the news of Toby Keith’s passing. Today is a sad day for Country music and its fans. Toby was a huge presence in our business and someone we all looked up to and respected. You and your music will be forever remembered big man. pic.twitter.com/M2RwMUFdKx
— Jason Aldean (@Jason_Aldean) February 6, 2024
Keith is survived by his wife of 39 years, Tricia Lucus, and children Shelley, Krystal, and Stelen.
