Country Star Toby Keith Dies at 62 After Battling Stomach Cancer
Feb. 5, 2024 — Oklahoma Country music superstar Toby Keith died peacefully at age 62 while surrounded by his family, following a battle with stomach cancer that he publicly disclosed in June 2022.
The announcement came the next day via Keith’s official website and social media, as reported by NPR:
Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5, surrounded by his family. He fought his fight with grace and courage. Please respect the privacy of his family at this time.
Keith had been diagnosed in late 2021 and underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery before revealing his condition. His final public performance was on Dec. 14, 2023, in Las Vegas.
Cancer Journey and Awareness
Keith announced his diagnosis after six months of treatment, describing it as “pretty debilitating.” Doctors noted that stomach cancer symptoms, such as heartburn, acid reflux, unexplained weight loss, nausea, and feeling full quickly, are often overlooked, leading to late diagnoses, according to NBC News. His passing raised awareness, as highlighted by UC Davis Health.
Storied Career
Known for patriotic anthems like “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American),” “Beer for My Horses,” and breakout hit “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” Keith sold over 40 million albums worldwide and notched 20 No. 1 country singles. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame hours after his death and received the National Medal of Arts in 2021.
Tributes and Legacy
Immediate reactions poured in from peers like Carrie Underwood and Jason Aldean. One year later, on Feb. 5, 2025, his family marked the anniversary on social media, with daughter Krystal Keith writing of gratitude for their time together and son Stelen sharing a video captioned, “A whole year without my hero,” per People magazine.
As of late February 2026, fans continue remembrances on X, tying his songs to U.S. Olympic hockey triumphs, such as posts invoking “RIP Toby Keith” with “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” videos amid Team USA celebrations.
