Today, at 68, the beloved Reba McEntire continues to capture hearts with her talent and resilience. For many, her music has been a constant companion, a staple in their lives, with her songs played over and over through the years.
Yet, Reba’s journey hasn’t always been smooth; this year marks the 32nd anniversary of a tragic plane crash that took several of her dear friends.
After breaking into the country music scene in the late '70s and early '80s, Reba went on to be named “Best Female Vocalist” four years in a row by the Country Music Association. She also earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame—a testament to her incredible career and lasting impact.
Despite her remarkable success, Reba has faced profound personal losses. In 2022, she mourned the passing of her mother, Jacqueline, who had fought a courageous battle with cancer and passed away at the age of 93.
“She had a wonderful, full, healthy life and was absolutely ready to go. The cancer might think it won, but we’re giving God all the credit for choosing her time to go home,” Reba wrote on social media. Jacqueline had always dreamed of a career in country music and taught Reba to sing, passing on her own ambitions to her daughter.
“She left knowing how much she is loved, and we all know how much she loved us,” Reba said. “We’re all going to miss her, but we have so many wonderful memories.”
One of Reba’s greatest losses came on March 16, 1991, when she lost seven of her band members and her tour manager in a plane crash. On that day, Reba and her band had performed in San Diego and were preparing to head to Fort Wayne, Indiana, for the next show. Two planes were ready at the San Diego airport; Reba and her husband, Narvel, stayed behind while her band flew ahead. Just ten miles from the airport, the first plane tragically crashed into Otay Mountain, killing everyone on board.
Reba has remembered and honored her lost friends often. In a moving 2012 interview with Oprah Winfrey, she recalled that terrible day.
“The tip of the wing hit a rock on Otay Mountain, and it killed everyone on the plane,” she shared with tears in her eyes. Narvel was the one to break the news, knocking on her hotel room door in the early hours to tell her what had happened. Reba vividly recalls the moment, saying, “I don’t think it ever stops hurting.”
Thirty-two years have now passed since that heartbreaking day, but Reba still honors her friends. She recently shared a photo of her band on Instagram, and in 2020, she posted another tribute, writing, “29 years ago today, I lost my friends in a plane crash. The timing of Mama’s passing with that anniversary seems appropriate. I know they’re all in Heaven together.”
Her fans poured out their love and support, with messages of encouragement and prayer, reminding her of the joy she brings to so many. In 2023, Reba shared another heartfelt tribute, saying, “Their love for music and the stage gives us all the strength to go on.”
Reba, you are an inspiration. Your strength and warmth continue to light up the world. Keep smiling and know that you are cherished.
Post a Comment