Reba McEntire, a true icon in the world of country music, is now 68 years old. Every week, her timeless tunes fill our homes with joy. It’s hard to imagine a time without her music keeping us company. However, Reba’s journey hasn’t been without its heartaches.
This year marks the somber 32nd anniversary of a disastrous plane crash which took the lives of some dear friends—her cherished bandmates.
Breaking into the country music scene in the late 70s and early 80s, Reba McEntire clinched the “best singer” award from the Country Music Association for four consecutive years. Her star shines brightly on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to her remarkable talent.
Despite a career filled with accomplishments, Reba has faced personal tragedies along the way. In 2022, she lost her beloved mother, Jacqueline, to cancer. Jacqueline reached the age of 93 before passing.
“She had a wonderful, full, healthy life,” Reba shared on social media, reflecting on her mother’s passing. “The cancer might think it won the battle, but we’re giving God all the credit on selecting the time for her to go home to Him.”
Jacqueline McEntire always aspired to be a professional country singer and found that dream realized through Reba, teaching her to sing.
“She left knowing how much she is loved and we all know how much she loved us,” Reba reflected. “We’re all going to miss her but we have so many wonderful memories.”
It’s clear Reba understands what it means to endure deep sorrow and loss.
On March 16, 1991, a fateful day etched in memory, Reba lost seven band members and her tour manager in a tragic plane crash following a concert.
I recall that day vividly. While driving to work, news of the crash echoed over the radio, and a chill passed through me at the thought that Reba might have been aboard that plane.
Fortunately, she wasn’t.
After a show in San Diego on March 16, her band was scheduled to head to Fort Wayne, Indiana, for the next stop in their tour. Two planes stood ready at the airport; the band and tour manager flew ahead while Reba, alongside her husband and manager, stayed behind in San Diego.
Tragically, the first aircraft met with disaster merely ten miles from the airport.
Over the years, Reba has continuously paid tribute to those she lost. During an emotional interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2012, she shared insights into that heart-wrenching day.
“The tip of the wing of the airplane hit a rock on the side of Otay Mountain, and it killed everyone on the plane,” Reba recounted to Oprah.
“When we were notified, Narvel, my manager, went to meet with our pilot. He came back to the hotel at two or three in the morning and said one of the planes had crashed. I asked, ‘Are they okay?’ and he responded, ‘I don’t think so.’”
Tears welled in Reba’s eyes as she remembered those dreadful moments.
“Narvel was walking room to room with a phone,” she shared, her voice wavering with unshed tears. “Even after 20 years, it doesn’t ever stop hurting. I can still visualize that room and see Narvel pacing.”
Now, as 32 years have passed since that tragic event, Reba continues to honor her friends’ memories. She recently posted a photo of her band on Instagram, looking back on that fateful day.
In 2020, she shared yet another tribute: “29 years ago today, I lost my friends in a plane crash. The timing of Mama’s passing with that anniversary seems appropriate,” she wrote.
“I know they’re all in Heaven together and taking care of each other. Let’s keep finding ways to take care of each other down here on earth and never take one moment with our loved ones for granted.”
Reba’s fans immediately rallied behind her, offering love and prayers.
“Reba, I’ve always admired your music and followed you on Instagram. Prayers for you and your mom,” wrote one devoted fan.
In 2023, Reba once again displayed her unwavering remembrance of those lost, showcasing that their memory, and the profound impact they left on her life, never fades.
“Their love for music and their passion for the stage continue to inspire us all,” she expressed, sharing a heartfelt video of the group performing together.
Our hearts go out to Reba. Stay strong, you exceptional woman. There’s a reason you’re still here, spreading happiness, so keep sharing that beautiful smile!