Reba McEntire, at 68 years old, remains a true legend in country music. Her powerful voice and timeless songs have been a staple in our lives for decades, offering both joy and comfort to countless listeners. Yet, despite her successful career and bright public persona, Reba’s journey has been marked by personal heartaches that have shaped who she is today.
A Tragic Loss: The Plane Crash
This year marks the 32nd anniversary of a devastating tragedy in Reba’s life. On March 16, 1991, she tragically lost seven of her band members and her tour manager in a plane crash following a concert. The news of the crash shook the world, and Reba, who was not on the plane, has since shared the emotional toll the event took on her. In an emotional interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2012, Reba recounted the horror of hearing the news: “The tip of the wing of the airplane hit a rock on the side of Otay Mountain, and it killed everyone on the plane.”
As she recalled that night, Reba’s emotions were raw. “Even after 20 years, it doesn’t ever stop hurting. I can still visualize that room and see Narvel pacing,” she said, tears in her eyes. The pain of that day continues to live with her, but Reba has honored the memory of her lost friends and bandmates in the years since.
Personal Grief: Losing Her Mother
While the plane crash was a defining moment in Reba’s life, she has also faced deep personal losses. In 2022, Reba lost her beloved mother, Jacqueline, to cancer at the age of 93. Jacqueline had always dreamed of being a professional country singer, a dream that she saw fulfilled through Reba’s success. Reflecting on her mother’s passing, Reba wrote on social media, “The cancer might think it won the battle, but we’re giving God all the credit on selecting the time for her to go home to Him.”
Reba found solace in knowing her mother lived a full, healthy life, surrounded by love. “She left knowing how much she is loved and we all know how much she loved us,” Reba shared, offering a bittersweet tribute to the woman who shaped her career and her heart.
A Strong Tribute: Remembering the Lost
Reba’s tributes to those she lost continue to resonate. In 2020, she posted on Instagram, reflecting on the 29th anniversary of the plane crash: “I know they’re all in Heaven together and taking care of each other.” With the anniversary coinciding with her mother’s passing, Reba felt the timing was fitting. She urged her followers to appreciate every moment with loved ones, never taking them for granted. Her fans, ever supportive, responded with heartfelt messages of love and prayer, reinforcing the bond between Reba and her admirers.
A Legacy of Strength and Music
Despite these profound losses, Reba’s strength shines through. In 2023, she posted a touching video of her band performing, demonstrating that their music and passion continue to inspire. She remains a beacon of resilience, using her platform to honor the memories of those she’s lost while continuing to share her gift of music with the world.
Reba McEntire’s ability to overcome heartache and continue spreading joy is a testament to her strength and enduring spirit. With each tribute and each song, she keeps the memory of her loved ones alive and inspires her fans to do the same. We stand by her side, supporting this exceptional woman as she continues to light up the world with her music and her indomitable spirit.
