Naomi Judd, the legendary country music star, was married to her beloved husband, Larry Strickland, for an incredible 33 years before her untimely passing on April 30, 2022. Even after her heartbreaking loss, her family and Larry have continued to honor her memory in countless ways. Naomi’s impact on the world of music and her personal life story continue to inspire fans worldwide.
Who Is Larry Strickland, Naomi Judd's Devoted Husband?
Larry Strickland is a man who truly understands the power of music. Growing up as the son of a preacher, he was surrounded by gospel music from a young age. At just 12 years old, he attended his first gospel concert and instantly knew that music would be the passion that defined his life. After serving in the U.S. Army for four years, Larry embarked on a career in music, performing with gospel quartets across the country. His journey in music was just beginning, and it would eventually lead him to meet the love of his life, Naomi Judd.
In 1974, Larry's career took a significant turn when he was invited to join JD Sumner and the Stamps Quartet. This opportunity allowed him to tour and record with none other than Elvis Presley. Even after Elvis's passing in 1977, Larry remained with the group, continuing to spread the joy of gospel music far and wide. His dedication to music and his craft was truly unmatched.
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How Did Naomi Judd and Larry Strickland's Love Story Begin?
Music played a pivotal role in bringing Naomi Judd and Larry Strickland together. In 1979, their paths crossed for the first time, setting the stage for a beautiful love story. At the time, Naomi was tirelessly pursuing her dreams in the music industry alongside her daughter Wynonna Judd, whom she had with her ex, Charles Jordan, in 1964. Naomi's determination and talent were undeniable, and it wasn't long before Larry recognized the incredible connection they shared.
Ten years after their initial meeting, Naomi and Larry tied the knot in Nashville in 1989. Larry proved time and again that he was the ultimate supporter, standing by Naomi as her career skyrocketed. Together, they formed the iconic duo known as The Judds, producing timeless hits like “Grandpa,” “Love Can Build a Bridge,” “Give a Little Love,” and so many more. Their music touched the hearts of millions, and their partnership both personally and professionally was nothing short of extraordinary.
Naomi Judd's Journey Through Love and Marriage
Before she found love with Larry, Naomi Judd had been married once before. She was married to her first husband, Michael Ciminella, from 1964 to 1972. During their marriage, they welcomed a child, their daughter Ashley Judd, in 1968. Naomi's life was filled with love and family, and her legacy continues to inspire those around her.
Remembering Naomi Judd: Her Final Days
Naomi Judd's life was tragically cut short when she died by a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the age of 76 in April 2022, just one day before The Judds were set to be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Her daughters, Wynonna and Ashley, released a heart-wrenching statement at the time, expressing their devastation.
“Today we sisters experienced a tragedy,” Wynonna and Ashley said in their statement. “We lost our beautiful mother to the disease of mental illness. We are shattered. We are navigating profound grief and know that as we loved her, she was loved by her public. We are in unknown territory.”
Despite their immense pain, both Wynonna and Ashley attended the Country Music Hall of Fame ceremony on May 1, 2022, honoring their mother's legacy. Wynonna spoke to the audience, saying, “I’m gonna make this fast because my heart’s broken and I feel so blessed. It’s a very strange dynamic, to be this broken and blessed. Though my heart’s broken, I will continue to sing because that’s what we do.”
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Larry also opened up after Naomi's passing, sharing intimate details about their final months together. “For the past 13 years or more, I was with her 24/7,” the gospel singer revealed to People in December 2022. “I never left the house without Naomi knowing where I was going and when I would be back. When you have a mate that has a mental illness, you walk that path with them.”
He continued, “When you lose someone to suicide, you don’t get a chance to say goodbye,” adding, “[After losing Naomi], it was pain like I’ve never felt before.” Larry shared that he was “consumed by what happened” and expressed his desire to help others dealing with mental health challenges by working with the National Association of Mental Illness.
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
