It’s been a tough few months for Krystal Keith, who recently lost her legendary father, Toby Keith, after a courageous battle with stomach cancer. In a heartfelt interview with AARP, Krystal opened up about her dad’s incredible journey, revealing how his unshakable faith and unwavering strength carried him through one of the toughest battles of his life.

Reflecting on her father’s diagnosis, which he bravely shared with the world in June 2022, Krystal shared, “Dad always had a deep faith and an extraordinary relationship with Jesus. He reached a place where he could say, ‘Whatever happens, I know where I’m going, and I’m at peace with it.’ That’s who he was. He was determined to keep fighting—not just for himself, but for Mom. He wanted to make sure she felt like she had done everything possible to help him. That’s the kind of man he was—strong, courageous, and always thinking of others.”

Remembering Toby Keith: A Night to Honor an American Icon

On Wednesday, August 28, friends, family, and fans gathered in Nashville for a night filled with music, memories, and love as they celebrated the life of Toby Keith in a special tribute called Toby Keith: American Icon. Filmed at the Bridgestone Arena, the event featured performances by some of the biggest names in country music, each paying homage to the man who touched so many lives with his music and spirit.

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Krystal took to the stage during the tribute to perform her father’s iconic song, “Don’t Let the Old Man In,” leaving the audience in awe of her powerful voice and emotional connection to the lyrics. In a candid moment with People, Krystal shared her thoughts on choosing such a meaningful song to honor her dad. “I thought, ‘I can handle a party song.’ But when they suggested ‘Don’t Let the Old Man In,’ I knew it would be tough. I already cried every time I listened to it. I wasn’t sure if I could sing it, but I’m so glad I did. It turned out to be really special, and I think Dad would’ve been proud.”

Toby Keith’s Final Performance: A Night to Remember

Just months before his passing, Toby Keith delivered a memorable performance of “Don’t Let the Old Man In” at the People’s Choice Country Awards in September 2023. That evening, he was honored with the Country Music Icon Award, a title he truly embodied. During his emotional acceptance speech, Toby expressed his gratitude to fans and family, proving once again why he was loved by so many.

“Bet you thought you’d never see me in skinny jeans,” Toby joked as he stepped onto the stage. “I want to thank the almighty for allowing me to be here tonight. You’ve been riding shotgun with me for a little while. A lot of people go into making a big career like this, and I’m so grateful for every single one of them. Most of all, I want to thank the fans for still letting us do what we love.”

toby keith tribute — Terry Wyatt/Getty Images

Legacy Lives On: Krystal Reflects on Her Father’s Impact

In February of this year, Toby Keith’s family shared the news of his passing at the age of 62. “Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5, surrounded by his family,” the family’s statement read. “He fought his fight with grace and courage. Please respect the privacy of his family at this time.”

Toby leaves behind a legacy of love and music, cherished by his wife, Tricia Lucus, daughter Krystal, and his other children, Shelley and Stelen, along with four grandchildren. Krystal reflected on the tribute concert, saying, “Dad was the kind of guy who’d say, ‘Aw, shucks, this isn’t necessary.’ He wouldn’t have wanted all this fuss, but I know he’d be honored that so many artists took time out of their busy schedules to celebrate him. He’d be touched by the words they said and the way they honored him.”