Reba McEntire is the epitome of a country music icon. From the instant she stepped onto the stage in the late 1970s, she captured the hearts of countless admirers who cherished her talent and charisma.
Over the course of her life, she entered into marriage twice and is the proud mother of her only child, Shelby.
Yet, despite her massive accomplishments and the radiant smile she so often wears, Reba has endured her fair share of sorrow.
In 2022, she faced an immense loss when her beloved mother, Jacqueline, succumbed to cancer. This was a devastating event, as the two shared an unbreakable bond, built on deep love and admiration.
“She lived a beautiful, fulfilling, and healthy life, and she was fully prepared for her journey onward. Cancer may believe it claimed victory, but we’re giving all the glory to God for choosing the perfect moment to bring her home,” the country sensation expressed in a heartfelt social media post.
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Two years earlier, in 2020, Reba honored the memory of those who perished in a tragic plane crash. “Today marks 29 years since I lost dear friends in that accident,” she shared in remembrance.
She also reflected on how the timing of her mother’s passing seemed to align with that painful anniversary. “It feels fitting in a way,” she mentioned in her post.
“I have no doubt that they’re all in Heaven now, looking after one another. Down here, we should continue to care for each other and cherish every single moment we have with our loved ones.”
Her devoted supporters quickly responded with words of comfort and encouragement. “Reba, I’ve always admired your music, our mutual love for horses, and now, following your journey on Instagram. Sending prayers to you and your dear mother,” one follower commented.
As another year passed, the emotions remained unchanged. Reba took to social media once again to express that no matter how much time has elapsed, the pain of losing her friends still lingers.
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“Their passion for music and performing continues to inspire us all to keep moving forward,” she wrote, accompanied by a touching video of one of their past performances together as a group.
‘Little Miss Dynamite’ blew up the charts when she was only 12: The story of Brenda Lee
Brenda Lee's name might not be as instantly familiar as some of the other music icons of the 1960s, but when Christmas comes to mind, her song does too. You’ll catch yourself humming along to her infectious holiday classic, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.”
When Lee, now 78, first stepped onto a stage, she was too young to drive, yet her commanding voice propelled her to “unmatched worldwide fame” as the top-performing female artist of the 1960s.
Despite standing at just 4 feet 9 inches, Lee’s powerful vocals overshadowed her petite frame, making her a beloved sensation by the time she was merely 12 years old.
Born Brenda May Tarpley in 1944, she started her journey in the late 1940s, reached stardom in the 1950s, and throughout her career—which began long before she completed grade school—she dominated the charts 55 times, earning recognition as the leading female recording artist of the 1960s.
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At the young age of eight (as reported by Rolling Stone), Lee suffered the loss of her father, a construction worker, who died in a work-related accident. It was then that little Brenda, who soon adopted the last name Lee, became the primary breadwinner for her household.
Providing for her younger brother, older sister, and mother—who worked in a cotton mill—was not an obligation but something she willingly took on. She recounted her excitement at earning her first $20, knowing she could contribute to her family’s needs: “Even at that young age, I understood how much that helped us,” Lee recalled. “It put food on the table. It made a difference, and I loved doing it.”
The Atlanta-born singer, recognized as a “trailblazer of early rock and roll” by the Georgia Encyclopedia, saw her popularity soar globally throughout the 1960s.
However, despite her remarkable success, Lee remains remarkably modest, crediting those around her for their support in helping her achieve her aspirations. When asked by Christianity Today about being considered a legend, Lee humbly responded, “I don’t see myself that way!”
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She elaborated, “I’m just a girl who’s been incredibly fortunate to do what I love, and there are so many people who have sacrificed and invested their time and effort in me to help make my dream a reality. So if I’m a legend, then they are, too.”
In 1956, the young singer shared the stage with country star Red Foley at the Bell Auditorium near Augusta, Georgia, where she wowed audiences with a performance of Hank Williams’ “Jambalaya.”
Soon after, she secured a spot on Foley’s Ozark Jubilee, a popular country music show, where millions of viewers were captivated by the spunky 12-year-old whose talent far exceeded her years.
That same year, Lee signed a contract with Decca Records, and the following year, she relocated to Nashville, Tennessee. Blending country with rhythm and blues—enhanced by her signature hiccup-style vocals—she produced early rockabilly hits like “BIGELOW 6-200,” “Little Jonah,” and “Let’s Jump the Broomstick.”
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When asked whether she ever felt anxious performing in front of large audiences as a child, Lee replied, “Not really. No one ever told me I should be nervous. The stage always felt like home to me since I had been performing for people since I was three. It was my comfort zone.”
In 1957, she earned the nickname “Little Miss Dynamite” after recording the explosive song “Dynamite.” The following year, at just 13 years old, she released “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” which would go on to become a multi-generational holiday anthem.
“I knew it had something special,” she revealed to Rolling Stone.
In the subsequent years, she continued to climb the charts with hits like “Sweet Nuthin’s,” “All Alone Am I,” and “Fool #1.”
However, many of her songs depicted experiences she had yet to go through. Her mother prohibited dating, and by the time she graduated high school, she had not endured the heartbreak of young love.
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At only 16, she sang about the pain of love in “I’m Sorry” and expressed longing in “I Want to Be Wanted.” Both became major hits, even as she remained inexperienced in romance.
When she turned 18, she met Ronnie Shacklett, the man she has now been happily married to for six decades.
Touring as a child star had its challenges. Lee celebrated her 12th birthday in Las Vegas but described to the Las Vegas Journal how lonely she sometimes felt.
“Of course, I wasn’t even allowed to walk through a casino because I was so young. So I never really saw one. They took me through the kitchen to get to the showroom. After my performance, I was escorted back the same way. Children weren’t permitted in the casino area,” she explained. “There was nothing for a kid to do in Vegas. The only fun I had was being on stage.”
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Reflecting on what she missed out on, the award-winning singer admitted, “Many times, I longed to just be with my friends instead of constantly traveling.”
However, she made new friends along the way, including a little-known band that opened for her during a 1962 show in Germany. Casually, she recalled, “I spent time with John,” referring to John Lennon. “He was incredibly intelligent, sharp-witted, and kind-hearted. When I later learned that they considered themselves fans of my music, I was astonished.”
Among her notable friends was Elton John, who recalled his first time hearing her sing: “I was absolutely amazed. I had never heard anything like it.”
She also danced with Elvis Presley and had a long-standing friendship with Little Richard, whom she had known since the 1960s.
In 2019, both she and Little Richard were honored at the Governor’s Arts Awards, receiving Distinguished Artist accolades. It was Richard’s final public appearance before his passing at age 87 in May 2020.
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Remembering her dear friend, Lee shared, “I had been dancing to Little Richard’s music at sock hops for years. How do you describe magic? … I didn’t grasp the lyrics or their meaning back then—I just knew that his music made me feel alive.” She continued, “I have no doubt he’s in heaven; he was such a devoted man of faith.”
Faith is a cornerstone of Lee’s life, and she attributes much of her success—both personally and professionally—to her husband, whom she wed in 1962.
The rest, she says, is in God’s hands. “He guided me when I chose my husband. I wanted someone with integrity, honesty, and love for me—someone who would protect and cherish me. And that’s exactly what I found. I can only thank God for that.”
Lee remains deeply involved in Sunday Mornin’ Country, a faith-based event that runs alongside CMA Fest and has thrived for over 40 years.
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She has also influenced modern artists, including Taylor Swift, who penned a heartfelt essay in the book Women Walk the Line, How The Women in Country Music Changed Our Lives. Her piece, Rare Peer, highlights Lee’s impact as a 1950s pop sensation turned country music icon.
Although retired from performing, Lee’s legacy endures, especially during the holiday season when “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” fills the air. The beloved song has been a holiday staple for over six decades.
In 2019, the track climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts, 59 years after its release. Lee told the New York Post, “It’s surreal to be shopping in a store and hear yourself singing. It’s a pretty wild feeling … It’s truly been a wonderful blessing.”
It’s remarkable how Brenda Lee continues to bring joy to fans even after all these years. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” remains a favorite, evoking warm holiday memories. What are some of your favorite moments involving Lee?
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Sally Field responds to critics who called her “ugly”
It’s challenging to be a woman in Hollywood, but Sally Field has boldly refused to follow many of the ‘rules’ imposed by the industry.
Her performances in films like Forrest Gump, Mrs. Doubtfire, and Steel Magnolias are truly iconic. However, some of her most inspiring work is not on the screen but in her personal fight against ageism and bullying throughout her career.
Timeless beauty and resilience At 78, Field still radiates the charm she had at 19, even as she continues to face criticism about her appearance.
40 Vintage Photos of a Young and Beautiful Sally Field From ... (Source: www.pinterest.com)
Early beginnings and career milestones Field’s early life was marked by challenges, including the traumatic sexual abuse she endured from her stepfather, Jock Mahoney—something she bravely revealed in her 2018 memoir, according to The New York Times.
Her career began with the 1960s sitcom Gidget, a breakout role that catapulted her to fame and paved the way for acclaimed performances in Sybil and Norma Rae (earning her an Academy Award). Over time, she became widely recognized for portraying strong maternal figures in hits like Soap Dish and Not Without My Daughter.
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Recalling a turning point during her work on The Flying Nun, she shared, “A wonderful actress I worked with pulled me aside and handed me a note when I was deeply depressed.”
Embracing natural aging Field has been open about embracing aging gracefully. In a 2016 Good Housekeeping interview, she admitted to accepting her role as an “older woman.” She also expressed her decision to avoid plastic surgery, instead focusing on appreciating her current appearance as she grows older.
“I see myself on TV and think, ‘Oh, I wish my neck didn’t look like that.’ Your face changes, your eyes get puffier,” she confessed, acknowledging the natural aging process.
Facing online cruelty and health struggles Field’s decision to age naturally has, unfortunately, made her a target for online trolls, who have mocked her appearance on platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Despite the negativity, she remains steadfast in her commitment to age on her own terms.
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Beyond the criticism, Field has faced health challenges, including osteoporosis, a condition she was diagnosed with in 2005 before turning 60. This silent disease, more common in women due to hormonal changes during menopause, causes a loss in bone density. Despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle, Field shared with WebMD that her risk factors—being thin, small-boned, and Caucasian—meant the diagnosis was almost inevitable.
“My bones were getting thinner without any symptoms I could notice,” she explained.
An inspiration to many It’s disheartening to see Sally Field subjected to online bullying, particularly when she’s battling health issues like osteoporosis. Nonetheless, her decision to age naturally and live authentically continues to inspire others who wish to do the same.
If you admire Sally Field, you might also enjoy learning more about her relationship with Burt Reynolds and the reasons they didn’t speak for the last 30 years of his life.
THE WAITRESS HELD MY DAUGHTER—THEN SHE WHISPERED SOMETHING THAT BROKE ME
The morning had dragged on endlessly. My young daughter was irritable, utterly worn out, and barely keeping herself composed. I tried every trick I knew—offering her juice, snacks, even her beloved stuffed toy—but nothing seemed to help.
Then, the waitress approached.
She crouched down beside us, her smile gentle and inviting, and extended her arms. “May I?” she asked in a soft, soothing tone.
To my astonishment, my little girl didn’t resist. She nestled into the stranger’s arms as though they were old friends. Within moments, she was sound asleep, her small hands clutching the fabric of the waitress’s uniform.
I exhaled deeply, unaware I’d been holding my breath. “I don’t know how to thank you,” I said quietly.
The woman simply rocked my daughter, her gaze distant. After a long silence, she spoke in a voice so tender, so filled with emotion, that it made my chest ache.
“She reminds me of someone I lost.”
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Her words lingered in the air, weighted with unspoken meaning. For a moment, I wondered if she was referring to a niece or a cousin—a child she had once loved. But there was something more profound in her expression. Her eyes softened as she looked down at my sleeping child, gently tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “You’re lucky,” she added softly before carefully handing her back to me.
That moment stayed with me throughout the day. It wasn’t just her words; it was the way she spoke them—the raw, unfiltered emotion behind them. Something about her lingered in my thoughts long after we left the diner.
Days turned into weeks, and life resumed its usual rhythm. Between work, errands, and the chaos of parenting, I nearly forgot about the waitress. Nearly. But every so often, when my daughter would curl up in my lap or burst into laughter at one of my silly antics, I’d think of her again. There was a sorrow in her voice that I couldn’t shake, as though she carried a burden too heavy to bear alone.
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One Saturday afternoon, while out running errands, I found myself drawn back to the diner where we’d met. Perhaps it was curiosity, or maybe a sense of guilt for not asking more questions—or perhaps I simply wanted to repay her kindness in some way. Whatever the reason, I parked outside and stepped into the cozy little café.
The familiar scent of pancakes and coffee filled the air. The walls were decorated with vintage posters and eclectic frames, giving the place a warm, welcoming feel. I glanced around, hoping to see her. Instead, a young man was wiping down tables. He looked up and offered a polite smile.
“Hi,” I said, suddenly feeling a bit awkward. “I’m looking for a waitress who works here. She has dark hair, warm brown eyes, and—”
“Oh, Mia!” he interrupted, nodding. “She’s in the back. Let me get her for you.”
“Thank you,” I replied, feeling a wave of relief.
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A few moments later, she appeared, drying her hands on her apron. When she saw me, recognition flashed across her face, followed by a look of surprise. “You came back,” she said simply, tilting her head slightly.
“I did,” I admitted, clutching my purse strap nervously. “I wanted to thank you properly—and maybe ask…” I hesitated, unsure how to phrase my question without being intrusive. “What happened? That day, when you said she reminded you of someone…”
Mia’s expression shifted, a mix of vulnerability and composure. She gestured toward an empty booth by the window. “Let’s sit.”
As we settled into the booth, sunlight streamed through the glass, casting a warm glow on the table. Mia folded her hands neatly in front of her, taking a deep breath. “Her name was Lily,” she began, her voice steady but tinged with sorrow. “She was my daughter.”
My heart sank. I hadn’t expected this. Somehow, I’d convinced myself she might be referring to a sibling or a friend’s child—not her own.
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“She was five when she passed away,” Mia continued, her eyes fixed on the table as though reliving memories. “Cancer. It happened so quickly—too quickly. One day she was laughing, playing dress-up, and the next…” Her voice broke, and she paused to collect herself. “I still miss her every single day.”
Tears welled up in my eyes, but I forced myself to stay present, to listen. “I can’t imagine what that feels like,” I whispered, knowing no words could truly capture the depth of her pain.
Mia gave a small, bittersweet smile. “It’s hard. Some days are better than others. But seeing your daughter last week—it felt like having a piece of Lily back, even if only for a moment. She looks so much like her.”
I blinked, stunned. “Like her?”
Mia nodded. “Same curls, same dimple when she smiles. Same stubborn streak.” She chuckled softly, though tears glistened in her eyes. “It caught me off guard. I guess I needed a reminder that love never really leaves us. Even when people do.”
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We talked for nearly an hour, sharing stories and laughter despite the weight of the conversation. By the end, I felt like I’d gained not only insight into Mia’s world but also a deeper appreciation for my own. Before leaving, I hugged her tightly, promising to visit again soon.
On the drive home, I replayed our conversation in my mind. Mia’s strength amazed me—not because she hid her pain, but because she faced it openly, allowing herself to heal slowly. And she reminded me of something important: none of us are promised tomorrow. Every hug, every laugh, every ordinary moment is precious because it’s fleeting.
When I walked through the door, my daughter greeted me with her usual enthusiasm, wrapping her arms around my legs. I bent down and scooped her up, holding her close longer than usual. “I love you,” I whispered fiercely into her ear. “So, so much.”
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She giggled, squirming in my arms. “I love you too, Mommy!”
In that instant, I made a silent vow: to cherish these moments, no matter how chaotic they might seem. Because someday, they’ll be the memories I hold onto most.
Life moved forward, as it always does. A few months later, I invited Mia to join us for dinner one evening. Watching her interact with my daughter brought both joy and healing—it was clear they shared a special bond. Over time, we became friends, supporting each other through life’s ups and downs.
The lesson I learned from Mia stays with me every day: grief doesn’t disappear, but neither does love. We carry both within us, shaping who we are and reminding us to hold tightly to the people who matter most.
If this story resonated with you, take a moment today to tell someone you care about how much they mean to you. Share this post, spread kindness, and remember: life’s greatest treasures often come wrapped in the simplest moments. ❤️
