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George Strait is a legend in the country music industry who has amassed a net worth of $300 million and his talent is unparalleled. He doesn’t usually do much press because he doesn’t have to, and, although he’s announced his retirement, he still graces us with performances. Strait isn’t just a performer. He’s also a family man who enjoys tradition and being a faithful husband. George Strait and his wife Norma have been together for over four decades. Read on for the facts on Norma and Strait’s marriage, the deep tragedy they’ve overcome together and their life as a couple.
1. Norma and George Eloped Before George Headed Into the Army
Norma and George were high school sweethearts who eloped in Mexico on December 4, 1971. A few weeks later, the two exchanged vows at a church in Pearsall, Texas. That same year, George enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed at the Schofield Barracks in Hawaii. There, Strait began performing with a U.S. Army-sponsored band, “Rambling Country”, which played off-base under the name “Santee”. While stationed in Hawaii, in 1972, Norma and George had their first child together, a daughter named Jenifer.
2. One of the Couple’s Children Was Killed When She Was 13 Years Old
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George Strait and his wife lost their daughter Jenifer in San Marcos on June 25, 1986 when she was just 13-years-old. She was the passenger in a car accident and was ejected from the vehicle, killing her immediately. Strait doesn’t talk about the incident, but his 2005 song “You’ll Be There” makes him think of his daughter. George Strait once told USA Today:
That song hit home for me for obvious reasons. I’m a religious person. I honestly believe we will see each other in heaven someday. I wanted to do the song badly.
In memory of their daughter, Norma and George set up a childrens’ charity called the Jenifer Lynn Strait Foundation.
Norma and George also have a son named George Jr., who they call Bubba.
3. In 2011, Norma And George Celebrated 40 Years Together
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George Strait and his wife have spent almost half a lifetime together and in 2012, Strait gushed to People about his marriage:
We love each other and we still like each other. We’re so blessed that we were able to experience this life together, to support each other through everything, good times and bad.
How adorable is that?!
4. George And Norma Stopped Dating After One Date
After George took Norma on their first date, he didn’t take her out again for a long time. CBS Local reports George Strait revealing:
Norma was the first girl I ever loved. We knew each other forever, growing up in a small town. I never really even thought anything about her, but then one day I asked her out and we went on a date. We didn’t see each other for a long time after that. Then one day, I thought, ‘I’m missing the boat here,’ and we started dating again.
5. The Holidays Are Big in the Strait House
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Norma and George Strait’s son may be grown and have a child of his own, but that doesn’t stop the Strait family from carrying on tradition. When it comes to the holidays, the Straits go full throttle. Norma’s husband talked about their home to USA Today, revealing:
The ranch is brush country. It’s desolate-looking. I love it. During the winter break, we’re all together as a family. It’s me and Norma and our son. On Christmas, I get up early, while it’s still dark, and make a big fire. The rest of the family is still asleep. I have presents hidden all over the house, and I’ll bring those out. I’ll get out the cookies and milk. I still like to do that for Santa because he’s always hungry.
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Norma Strait, George Strait’s Wife: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know