Toby Keith and wife Tricia Lucus' relationship timeline
Toby Keith And Tricia Lucus was married for almost 40 years before his death.
The pair married in 1984. Lucus was by Keith's side as he played local gigs before scoring his big break.
“Dozens of people told Tricia, 'You need to tell your dad to get a real job,'” Keith later recalled. Land weekly. “It took a loving woman with a strong heart to say, 'He's good enough at music, I should let him try.' And it would be a great opportunity for both of us if he can make it work. ''
More than 35 years after their marriage, Keith announced in June 2022 that he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer six months earlier. “So far so good,” he wrote in an Instagram statement. “I need time to breathe, recover and relax. I'm looking forward to spending this time with my family. But I'll see the fans sooner rather than later. I can not wait.”
A year later, Keith shared an update as he continued his treatment. “I feel pretty good,” he said The Oklahoman, noting that he had seen a “positive trend” in his health. “With cancer you never know, so you have to prepare.”
Tricia Lucus and Toby Keith
Michael Stewart/WireImageHe added at the time that he hoped to be able to 'hit the road' in due course. “I have more wind,” he said. “And I'm thinking about getting the band and setting it up, playing somewhere for two or three days, just to see if I can get through the two hours. … I'm ready.”
Scroll down for a look back at Keith's relationship with Lucus over the years:
1979
The couple met while Keith was working as an oilfield worker after graduating high school and performing with a group called the Easy Money Band at a local bar.
1984
After three years of dating, the pair tied the knot. After their marriage, Keith adopted Lucus' eldest daughter, Shelley Covel Rowlandwhich she welcomed in 1980.
Tricia Lucus and Toby Keith
Jeff Kravitz/ACMA2018/FilmMagic for ACM1985
Keith and Lucus welcomed their first child together, daughter Crystal.
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1991
Lucus opened up People about how Keith always made her feel special. “Most people think he's just the most romantic person on earth,” she said. “He has his moments of charm. It's nice to get a bouquet of flowers, but I told him, 'Save the money. Roses die within five to seven days. Buy me an outfit or take me out to dinner.'”
1997
The pair welcomed their son, To steal.
2006
Keith and his wife founded the Toby Keith Foundation with the mission to “encourage and support the health and happiness of childhood cancer patients,” according to the charity's website.
Toby Keith and Tricia Lucus
Terry Wyatt/Getty Images2022
Keith's family was by his side in Nashville as he was honored with the BMI Icon Award. That same year, he announced his diagnosis of stomach cancer.
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2023
The couple celebrated 39 years of marriage. “Happy Birthday to Toby and Tricia! Show them some love in the comments,” read the caption of one Instagram post shared via Keith's account.
2024
Keith died at the age of 62. “Toby Keith passed away peacefully last night, February 5, surrounded by his family,” said a statement shared via the musician's social media accounts. “He fought his battle with grace and courage. Please respect his family's privacy at this time.”