Reba McEntire's Heart-Wrenching Battle: How She Triumphed Over Grief to Keep Singing
Reba McEntire's heart-wrenching revelation: Her mother's 2020 passing inflicted such deep pain that she contemplated giving up her illustrious singing career A candid insight into the toll grief can take on even the brightest stars
Singer Reba McEntire (left) and Jacqueline Smith (right) were in attendance at Muhammad Ali's Celebrity Fight Night XXII on April 8, 2016, held at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Phoenix, Arizona. The event was captured by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Celebrity Fight Night.
It has been three years since the passing of Reba McEntire's mother, and the renowned "Queen of Country" recalls how her mother's death almost caused her to abandon her iconic music career.
"I had no desire to sing anymore. While working at home, I confessed to my younger sister Susie, 'I don't know if I still want to sing.' She asked me why, and I replied, 'Because I always sang for Mama,'" McEntire, aged 68, shared during her appearance on the Today show on Tuesday, October 10.
Jacqueline McEntire passed away at the age of 93 on March 14, 2020. According to The Voice coach, she was the one who inspired and taught her children how to sing, accompanied them to their performances, and served as their greatest supporter. Reba fondly recalls her mother encouraging her to pursue a career in music, allowing her to experience the joy of living through her success.
"She told Reba that she would be living vicariously through her and wondered why she wouldn't want to pursue singing."
"The renowned artist, a three-time Grammy winner, is set to unveil her 33rd album, titled Not That Fancy, on Friday, October 13. The collection features a heartfelt track named 'Seven Minutes in Heaven,' inspired by her mother."
Reba's latest album, "Not That Fancy: Simple Lessons on Living, Loving, Eating, and Dusting Off Your Boots," which was released on Tuesday, is named after her new compilation of recipes, memoirs, photos, and lifestyle advice.
Since 2020, the renowned country singer has been in a relationship with actor Rex Linn, whom she first met in 1991. Following the loss of her mother, they reconnected, and Reba revealed during an interview on Today that Linn played a vital role in helping her through this difficult time.
"It's always much more comforting to have someone to share both the moments of sorrow and joy," she expressed. "Rex, being a remarkably uplifting and positive individual, holds a special place in my heart, and I adore him wholeheartedly."
The vocalist honored her mother's passing by announcing the news on X (formerly referred to as Twitter) three years ago.
"Our beloved Mother, Jacqueline McEntire, gracefully transitioned into Heaven today. She lived a fulfilling and vibrant life, filled with good health, and she was fully prepared for this journey," she expressed. "Although cancer may think it emerged victorious, we attribute her departure to God's divine timing, as He called her back to Him."
She further added, "She departed from this world with the knowledge that she was deeply cherished, and we are equally aware of the immeasurable love she bestowed upon us. We sincerely appreciate all the prayers, cards, calls, visits, the compassionate caregivers, and the precious moments that God blessed us with Mama."
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Reba also shared a cherished family photograph and expressed her deep affection for her late mother with a heartfelt caption. She acknowledged the various titles that her mother was lovingly addressed by, such as Jackie, Jac, Ms McEntire, Mama, Mama Jac, Momo Jac, Grandma, and Grandma Jac, highlighting her mother's undivided attention to those around her. The void left by her mother's passing will be deeply felt, but Reba is grateful for the countless precious memories they shared. She concludes by expressing gratitude to the Lord for these cherished moments. Thank you, Lord.
