An announcement on Keith’s website and social media says, “Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5th, surrounded by his family. He fought his fight with grace and courage. Please respect the privacy of his family at this time.”
Those offering tributes to Toby Keith include former vice president Mike Pence, “Touched by an Angel” star Roma Downey, and singer Carrie Underwood, who posted, “Saddle up the horses, Jesus, ‘cause a true blue COWBOY just made his ride up to heaven!!! Introduce him to all the Okies and sign that boy up for the choir!”
“We’re gonna miss you, Toby,” Underwood continued, “but my heart has no doubt that you are standing in the presence of our King right now!!! See you again someday, friend.”
Saddle up the horses, Jesus, ‘cause a true blue COWBOY just made his ride up to heaven!!! Introduce him to all the Okies and sign that boy up for the choir! We’re gonna miss you, Toby, but my heart has no doubt that you are standing in the presence of our King right now!!! See… pic.twitter.com/9a2RauHo5p
— Carrie Underwood (@carrieunderwood) February 6, 2024
“Heavy morning with the announcement of losing a pillar in the country music community,” said another fellow country singer and Christian, Granger Smith.
“I am heart broken hearing the news this morning. He inspired millions through his music and united the Nation in a time when we needed it the most,” said Oliver Anthony, who went viral for his song, “Rich Men North of Richmond.” “He may be gone in flesh, but will always be with us in spirit through his music. Long live the cowboy from Oklahoma.”
Pastor and former SBC president Dr. James Merritt, said he was “sad” to hear of Keith’s passing, as well as the passing of a University of Georgia superfan named Trent Woods. “Life is short, Death is sure. Sin is the cause, Christ is the cure,” said Merritt.
Toby Keith is survived by his wife of 40 years, Tricia Lucus; their three children, Shelley, Krystal and Stelen; and four grandchildren.
