Toby Keith’s Children Share Heartbreaking Tributes on First Anniversary of His Passing
Toby Keith’s second daughter Krystal Keith was also a musician (Krystal Keith/Facebook)
Toby Keith wasn’t just a country music legend—he was a devoted husband, father, mentor, and a man who lived life unapologetically on his own terms. Now, a year after his passing on February 5, 2024, his family—especially his daughter, Krystal, and son, Steven—are reflecting on life without their fearless leader and the immense void he left behind.
If there was one person who truly understood Toby Keith’s passion for music, it was his daughter, Krystal Keith. The father-daughter duo shared an unbreakable bond, both on and off the stage. Following in her father’s footsteps, Krystal has carried on his musical legacy, delivering powerful performances in his honor—including an emotional rendition of “Don’t Let The Old Man In” at the Toby Keith: American Icon tribute concert.
On the anniversary of his passing, Krystal took to social media with a heartfelt message about the past year without her father. “It feels like yesterday we said goodbye, and yet it somehow has also been the longest year without him,” she wrote. “I can’t help but find gratitude in all the time we had because we did all of life as a family unit. It’s hard to find a candid picture where he doesn’t have one of our babies in his arms. He was their favorite, and they were his.”
“Our little miss their buddy big time, but we all know we will see him again someday. Until then, he will watch over us and walk beside us. Every sunset (and he LOOOOVED his sunsets) is a reminder that he wants us to live our best life and do good in the world. So that’s exactly what we will do.”
Alongside her message, Krystal shared a series of cherished family photos, capturing Toby as a devoted father and grandfather, always surrounded by love. Toby Keith’s son, Stelen Keith Covel, also shared his emotions in a moving tribute to the man who raised him.
“A whole year without my hero. Here’s to one day having more of these nights. Love you, Dad,” he wrote. Shortly after Toby’s passing, Stelen posted a deeply personal message reflecting on his father’s strength, wisdom, and influence. “You are the strongest man I have ever known. A fighter. A true titan of your industry. My guiding star. My coach. My hero. An embodiment of the American spirit,” he wrote.
He continued, “Your impact is forever stamped on the world and on millions of people, yet not one person knew you the way I did. You were my biggest champion and the guiding light in my darkest times. The best mentor a man could ask for.”
“The only thing I truly ever wanted in life was to make you proud. I promise I will continue to make you proud. It’s not goodbye forever; it’s just goodbye for now. I love you, cowboy.” Despite his legendary career, Toby Keith always made it clear that fame never defined him at home. “Everybody in the family is good. I was raised by good parents, and I have great kids. They don’t have any issues at all—none.
They all grew up with me being successful, but they are not hooked on that part of the business,” he once told People magazine. Even in the spotlight, Keith prioritized his family above all else—a legacy that now lives on in the love and memories his children continue to cherish.
