Backstage at Nashville's Grand Ole Opry, something deeply moving happened. Ashley and Wynonna Judd shared a heartfelt embrace, just moments before Wynonna took the stage for CMT's tribute to Loretta Lynn. But it was impossible not to think of their late mother, Naomi Judd, whose presence was palpable in the room. Wynonna's performance was powerful, but it was the sisters' reunion that truly stole the spotlight.
Healing Together After Loss
It's been six months since Naomi tragically took her own life, and both Ashley and Wynonna have been navigating the complex journey of grief in their own ways. Wynonna has chosen to honor her mother by embarking on The Judds: The Final Tour, a series of concerts that celebrate the legacy of the iconic mother-daughter duo. Meanwhile, Ashley has stayed close to home, immersing herself in wellness practices to find peace and healing. Though the road hasn't been easy, both sisters are determined to prioritize their health and healing, even as they grapple with their profound loss.
Ashley's Journey Through Grief
Ashley, now 54, faced an unexpected challenge shortly after her mother’s passing when she suffered a leg fracture in a freak accident. “There’s this idea that clumsiness is often associated with grief, and it’s something we’ve seen in our family,” Ashley reflects. She recalls how others in her family had accidents after her mom’s death, including a fall down the stairs. While this injury wasn’t as severe as the one she experienced in 2021—when she broke her leg in four places—it ended up being a blessing in disguise. “It gave me the space to stop everything and truly grieve,” she explains. During this time, Ashley also gained weight, but she’s not concerned. “When it’s meant to come off, it will,” she says with a reassuring smile.
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Support Systems and Healing Practices
Ashley has leaned heavily on her support systems during this time, including daily meditation and guidance from a "wisdom teacher." She’s also found strength in her close-knit group of friends, whom she affectionately calls her “chosen sisters.” These women were there for her immediately after her accident and continue to be a source of comfort. “They’ve been a lifeline,” Ashley shares. Recalling stories about her mother with them has been therapeutic. “It’s not just about the good times; it’s also about the tough ones. Talking about Mom helps me process everything,” she explains. A close friend confirms that this openness has been instrumental in Ashley’s healing process.
Wynonna's Tribute to Naomi
Meanwhile, Wynonna has thrown herself into the music that she and Naomi once shared with the world. She recently announced that The Judds: The Final Tour will expand, adding 15 more dates in 2023. For Wynonna, 58, continuing the tour feels like a natural extension of her journey. “As an artist, I’ve never felt such raw emotion at a show,” she says. “Every night, the fans sing so loudly that I step back from the microphone and just cry.” Wynonna’s performances have become a way to channel her grief into something beautiful, connecting her to both her mother and her audience in profound ways.
A Special Farewell Concert
Wynonna has also worked with her tourmates—including Martina McBride and Brandi Carlile—to recreate The Judds Farewell Concert, which she and Naomi originally performed for a TV special in 1991. “This is a monumental moment for me,” Wynonna admits. “It’s a big, hairy deal.” The concert was filmed at the same Tennessee State University venue where she once performed alongside her mother, and it will air on CMT in March. In her heart, Wynonna knows that Naomi would be proud. “She was old-school showbiz through and through, and she’d understand why the show must go on,” a close friend says.
Sisters Reuniting Amid Tragedy
Ashley has been a regular presence at Wynonna’s concerts on this emotional tour. “It shows the deep bond they share,” notes a mutual friend. “They’ve talked more in the past six months than they had in years before their mom’s passing.” While the sisters may not always see eye-to-eye, there’s no denying that Naomi’s death has brought them closer together. “They both loved their mom deeply and miss her every day,” the friend adds. “In the end, family ties really do run deeper than anything else.”
