TOBY KEITH’S WIFE WORKED AT OIL COMPANY BEFORE THEY MARRIED — SHE FOUGHT FOR HIS LIFE LIKE A ‘TROOPER’
Through the highs and lows of life, including moments of sickness and health, Tricia Lucus consistently provided steadfast support and stability to her husband, Toby Keith, spanning over three decades.
Unfortunately, tragedy hit when Toby died on February 5, 2024, surrounded by his family. His wife shone in their relationship as a caring and supportive partner to the end. According to a statement shared on Keith’s Instagram, the singer fought his fight with grace and courage.
The family urged fans to respect their privacy as they mourn the legendary songwriter and singer. Toby announced his cancer diagnosis in an Instagram post on June 12, 2022. He wrote, “Last fall, I was diagnosed with stomach cancer. I’ve spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation, and surgery.”
The singer assured his fans that everything was going well so far but that he needed time to relax, get better, and breathe. He revealed that he was looking forward to spending this time with his family. Still, he added, “But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can’t wait.”
The singer later gave a health update on September 2023, where he shared about undergoing treatment for stomach cancer on multiple occasions, emphasizing the debilitating nature of the condition. Despite his heartbreaking diagnosis that caused fans concern, Tricia’s husband was determined to regain his strength to continue with his passion. He successfully put on an impromptu show in July 2023.
Tricia Lucus and Toby Keith attend the Songwriters Hall Of Fame 46th Annual Induction And Awards at the Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 18, 2015, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Toby is survived by his three kids, daughters Shelley Covel Rowland and Krystal Keith, and son Stelen Keith Covel, whom he shares with Tricia, a proud mom and a successful businesswoman. The “We Were In Love” crooner treasured his wife.
In January 2024, when Toby was asked what his wife meant to him, he responded, “Ooh, she’s been a trooper. She’s the best nurse.” He recalled that the first time they went to Houston, at the hospital, Tricia “stepped right in, and she just took control and said, ‘We got this, let’s go.’” Tricia assured her husband that he didn’t have to worry as they were going to get through the illness together
Toby Keith with Tricia Lucus and Stelen Keith Covel arrive for the 34th Annual CMA Awards at the Grand Old Opry in Nashville, Tennessee on July 28, 2003. | Source: Getty Images
Toby’s wife was his stronghold throughout his battle with cancer. During one of his last performances, the country star moved Tricia to tears with a heartfelt performance of his song “Don’t Let The Old Man In.” Toby performed the songs at the People’s Choice Country Awards on September 28, 2023, just months before his passing from cancer.
Tricia, who is quite comfortable being in the public eye, stood proudly by her husband during the awards, where Toby graciously accepted the Country Icon Award.
Toby Keith and Tricia Lucus attend the People’s Choice Country Awards at The Grand Ole Opry on September 28, 2023, in Nashville, Tennessee. | Source: Getty Images
Toby Keith and his wife Tricia Lucus celebrated their 39 years of marriage in 2023. Within those years, Tricia played a significant role in his life, helping him weather the challenges that came their way. The pair’s love story began in the late 1970s after Toby graduated from Moore High School.
At that time, he had set out to follow in his father’s footsteps by working as an oil field laborer. In his spare time, he pursued his passion for music by performing in local bars with his band, Easy Money. In one of these bars, Toby crossed paths with Tricia, who worked as an oil company secretary.
They were both young, with Toby being 20 and Tricia being 19 at the time. According to Toby, Tricia exuded confidence and had a larger-than-life personality. She said, “Most people think he is just the most romantic person on the planet. He has his moments of charm.”
Their connection deepened over time, and they dated for three years before deciding to tie the knot in 1984. However, their early years of marriage were far from smooth sailing.
Tricia Lucus and Toby Keith attend the 34th Annual Nashville Symphony Ball at Schermerhorn Symphony Center on December 8, 2018, in Nashville, Tennessee. | Source: Getty Images
The oil fields went through a downturn, leaving Toby with uncertain prospects in the industry. Faced with financial challenges, he continued to pursue his music career, performing with his band at regional gigs. Tricia stood by his side, helping manage their finances and raising their family.
Toby’s breakthrough in the music industry came in 1993 when his self-titled debut album achieved platinum status, and the single “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” became a massive hit, becoming the most-played country song of the ’90s.
Despite his growing success, awards remained elusive for Tricia’s husband. However, he used this as motivation to work even harder. Finally, in later years, Toby’s talent was recognized and received accolades like the ACM trophies.
Toby Keith attends the 34th Annual Nashville Symphony Ball at Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville, Tennessee on December 8, 2018. | Source: Getty Images
Throughout this journey, Tricia remained a steadfast source of support. Her practicality and grounded perspective helped Toby focus on what truly mattered despite the pressures and demands of the industry.
However, there were times Tricia felt dismayed about her husband’s music. Once, she was surprised when her husband named his album “White Trash with Money” after their daughter had a big argument with a wealthy girl in their hometown of Norman, Oklahoma.
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During the argument, the girl’s mom called the musician’s family white trash with money. This characterization shocked and upset Tricia, but Toby, known for his humor, found it amusing.
Aside from being a wife and mother, Tricia rocked as an entrepreneur. She changed her career from the oil industry to the world of fashion design. She is now a successful businesswoman who has launched two sportswear companies: SwingDish and Covel.
SwingDish is a high-end women’s golf apparel and accessories brand that perfectly combines functionality and femininity. Tricia’s love for fashion and a late passion for the game of golf served as the inspiration behind creating this brand.
On the other hand, Covel focuses on men’s clothing. This brand has gained recognition for its advanced and high-performance fabrics that offer SPF 50+ sun protection, moisture-wicking capabilities, breathability, and exceptional stretch.
Therefore, apart from being a pillar of strength in Toby’s life, Tricia also carved out her own success as an entrepreneur and dedicated mother to their wonderful children. Now, their family mourns the loss of a husband, father, and cherished companion of over 40 years.
