Late country superstar’s daughter shares touching tribute for dad’s birthday

Toby Keith

Toby Keith performs at the iHeartCountry Festival on Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021, at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Texas. His daughter, Krystal, recently shared a birthday tribute to her late father. (Photo by Jack Plunkett/Invision/AP)Jack Plunkett/Invision/AP

Late country star Toby Keith, who died on Feb. 5, would’ve turned 63 on July 8. His daughter honored her father’s birthday with a touching message on social media.

Krystal Keith, who is also a country singer, shared a short birthday tribute post for her late father on Instagram. The post featured a photo of Keith holding up a sign that says “keep smiling.”

“Happy Birthday to our Popster,” the caption read. “We miss him like crazy. Playin’ it sweet in heaven today.”

Keith died in February at the age of 62 after a nearly two-year battle with stomach cancer. Along with Krystal, he was survived by his wife, Tricia Lucus; his other daughter, Shelley; and his son Stelen. He is also survived by several grandchildren.

Keith’s son, Stelen, posted on social media to mark the occasion as well.

“My old man’s that old man,” the post read. “Happy birthday, dad. Love you.”

READ MORE: What did Toby Keith die from? Here’s what you need to know

Many artists in the country music industry have paid their respects with tributes to Keith since his death. In March, Post Malone covered Keith’s song “As Good as I Once Was” during his set at the American Rodeo in Dallas. At this year’s 2024 ACM Awards, Jason Aldean performed a rendition of Keith’s song “Should’ve Been a Cowboy.”

READ MORE: Country music legend donated $20 million to kids with cancer before his death

Keith was also known for his altruistic and philanthropy efforts. His close friend and writing partner, Colt Ford, recalled earlier this year how The Toby Keith Foundation launched OK Kids Korral to offer housing for children and families battling cancer in his home state of Oklahoma.

An all-star tribute concert honoring Keith’s life and career titled “Toby Keith: American Icon” will air on NBC next month and feature artists like Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson and Luke Bryan.

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Saleah Blancaflor may be reached at sblancaflor@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter at @saleyley and Instagram.

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