Lorrie Morgan Remembers Keith Whitley On The 35th Anniversary of His Death

On May 9, 1989, the untimely death of Keith Whitley left a void in the country music community

35 years ago, beloved singer/songwriter Keith Whitley tragically passed away at the age of 34. During his all-too-short career, he made an immeasurable impact on the genre, charting 12 singles on the Billboard Charts, and seven more after his death. His soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics continue to inspire listeners to this day.

Keith was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2022, honoring his contributions to the country music industry.

Lorrie Morgan remembers Keith Whitley on the anniversary of his death

Lorrie Morgan, who was married to Keith Whitley from 1986 until his tragic death three years later, reflected on the loss in a social media post on May 9th. She shared:

“Today is always a sad day for me and my kids and all the Whitley’s . Today marks 35 years that Keith passed away. Still so hard to accept after all this time. I wish he could see his children and grandchildren so much.”  

Keith and Lorrie welcomed their only son, Jesse Keith Whitley, in June 1987. Keith also legally adopted Lorrie’s daughter, Morgan, from a previous relationship.

Lorrie continued in her post:

“Jesse Keith is on The Grand Ole Opry tonight paying tribute to his dad. We will all be listening from the bus. Love to Morgan and Parker and Preston and Jesse, Kristen, Tuff, Kimber and Kallie. I wish I could hug you all.”  

Jesse Keith Whitley honors his late father at the Grand Ole Opry

Jesse Keith Whitley, who has followed in his father’s musical footsteps, performed at the Grand Ole Opry last night (May 9) during Opry Country Classics. Reflecting on the night, he said:

“I cannot begin to tell you the energy I felt tonite on that stage. Thank y’all so incredibly much for allowing me there tonite. I love the Grand Ole Opry always and forever.”

Watch Jesse Keith Whitley sing his father’s hit song “I’m Over You” at the Country Rebel Ranch below!