On February 5, 2024, the world lost a giant in country music when Toby Keith succumbed to stomach cancer. He was 62 years old. His three kids with his wife Tricia Lucus formed a constant support system for him in life and career.
Meeting Tricia Lucus and Starting a Family
Toby Keith met Tricia Lucus in an Oklahoma disco back in 1981. Their wedding took place on March 24, 1984. Tricia already had a daughter, Shelley (born 1980), at the time. Toby adopted Shelley, and he embraced her as if she were his own. The two had a daughter together, Krystal, on September 30, 1985. In 1997, they welcomed their son Steven.
Shelley Covel Rowland: The Eldest Daughter
The eldest, Shelley, has remained private and out of the spotlight. She got married and became a mother herself, providing Toby and Tricia with their first grandchildren. While Shelley garnered little attention, she was an unwavering backer of her father’s initiatives.
Krystal Keith: Following in Her Father’s Footsteps
Like the legacy of her father, Krystal Keith followed a career in country music. In 2013, she put out her first album, Whiskey & Lace, with the single “Daddy Dance with Me,” a tribute dedicated to her father. Keith’s family has been further expanded, with Krystal marrying Andrew Sandubrae back in 2010 and being a mother of two daughters.
Stelen Keith Covel: The Youngest Son
The youngest, Stelen, went on to work in the more business-related side of music. His past includes being one of the founders of a concert booking company called Nostalgic Nights and owning an Oklahoma bar and grill. The Keith family also celebrated the marriage of Stelen, who tied the knot with his girlfriend of many years, Haley, in 2021.
Family’s Presence at the 2024 CMT Awards
Toby Keith’s children honored their late father at the 2024 CMT Awards following his death earlier that year. Brooks & Dunn, Lainey Wilson, and Sammy Hagar very recently performed a tribute to Toby for the ceremony. His kids were touched almost to tears by the emotional tribute, illustrating just how much his life and gig inspired them.
Continuing Toby Keith’s Philanthropic Legacy
In addition to music, Toby Keith was a philanthropist, and we also established the Toby Keith Foundation and OK Kids Korral for children with cancer. His family is committed to continuing his charitable work, ensuring that the gift of giving continues through his legacy.
The late country singer Toby Keith’s kids Shelley, Krystal, and Stelen always stayed by his side during both his life and career. The continuing work to carry on his legacy represents their close relationship with him.
