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Toby Keith’s Daughter Accepts His Honorary University of Oklahoma Degree 3 Months After His Death

Toby Keith / daughter krystal keith honorary degree oklahoma twitter

Introduction:

The country singer died at age 62 on Feb. 5, 2024 after being diagnosed with stomach cancer in the fall of 2021

The University of Oklahoma is remembering the late Toby Keith.

During the school’s May 11 graduation ceremony, the musician’s daughter Krystal Keith, 38, accepted an honorary degree on behalf of her father. Toby died on Feb. 5, 2024 at age 62 after being diagnosed with stomach cancer in the fall of 2021.

The country singer, who was born in Clinton, Oklahoma, had known he was set to receive the honor before his death. “Toby learned he would be receiving an honorary degree from @uofoklahoma last fall, and yesterday, @krystalkeith accepted it on his behalf at the commencement ceremony. Congratulations to all of the OU graduates!” a message posted on Toby’s Instagram page on May 12 read.

OU President, Joseph Harroz, Jr., also shared a photo on X (formerly known as Twitter) which featured Krystal and Toby’s wife, Tricia Lucus.

“So incredibly grateful to Tricia and Krystal Keith for joining us Saturday to celebrate the impact and legacy of @tobykeith with an honorary degree from @UofOklahoma,” he captioned the picture, adding, “Miss you and each and every day, TK. ❤️”

Toby was a big fan of the Oklahoma Sooners football team, and his daughters Krystal, and Shelley, 44, and son Stelen Covel, 27, are all OU alumni.

Following Toby’s death in February, Harroz, Jr. shared an emotional message on the university’s website. “Throughout his illustrious career, he remained rooted in his Oklahoma upbringing, choosing to live in the state that shaped him and giving back generously to his fellow Oklahomans,” the tribute included.

“His philanthropic efforts, from raising millions for children battling cancer to supporting tornado victims, exemplified his unwavering commitment to his roots and his compassion for others. As a lifelong Sooner, Toby’s passion for the crimson and cream made him a cherished figure within Sooner Nation, where he proudly shared his love for the university and its community,” the message added.

“His absence leaves a void not only in the country music landscape but also in the hearts of all who were touched by his music and his kindness. Personally, I will miss Toby’s laughter, warmth, and everlasting love for the University of Oklahoma,” Harroz, Jr. went on.

After her dad died, Krystal shared a heartfelt post on Instagram alongside multiple family photos. “I am shattered. As great as he was in his career, he was so much greater as a dad and a husband and a Pop Pop. He was my hero,” she wrote in the caption.

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