Today, we celebrate the incredible Reba McEntire on her 68th birthday. She is a constant presence in our lives, and her music continues to inspire and move us. But behind her success, Reba has faced challenges and personal tragedies that have tested her strength.

In 1991, tragedy struck when a plane carrying seven of Reba’s band members and her tour manager crashed after a concert. It was a heartbreaking moment that shook Reba and her fans to the core. I still vividly remember hearing the news on the radio and feeling my heart skip a beat, fearing the worst for Reba.

Fortunately, Reba had not been on that fateful plane. She and her husband had stayed behind in San Diego while the band members flew ahead to the next concert destination. The accident happened just ten miles east of the airport, and it claimed the lives of everyone onboard.

Over the years, Reba has honored the memory of her lost friends and band members. She has spoken about that tragic day and the impact it had on her life. In an emotional interview with Oprah Winfrey, Reba shared the details of the crash and the pain she still feels to this day.

But through it all, Reba has found strength and resilience. She has never forgotten her friends and continues to pay tribute to them. Just recently, she shared a photo of her band on Instagram, remembering the tragic events that unfolded 32 years ago.

In 2020, as she marked the anniversary of the crash, Reba also experienced the loss of her mother, Jacqueline, who had battled cancer. Despite the heartache, Reba found solace in the belief that her friends and her mother were now together in Heaven, watching over her.

Reba’s fans have always rallied around her during difficult times, sending their love and support. They recognize that her music and her stage presence were shaped by the love and passion her lost friends had for music.

As we celebrate Reba’s birthday today, let us also remember the incredible strength and resilience she has shown throughout her life. She is not just a talented artist but also a symbol of hope and perseverance. And as Reba herself said, let us never take a single moment with our loved ones for granted.

Let’s continue to take care of each other and find strength in the love and support of those around us, just as Reba has done. Happy birthday, Reba McEntire, and thank you for sharing your incredible journey with us.