Merle Haggard is remembered as one of the most important figures in country music. Over the years, he touched the hearts of many with his songs and helped shape the sound of country music as we know it today. His voice, his lyrics, and his honesty made him a legend.
Merle had many popular songs and received several awards during his career. In 2010, he received one of the highest honors in the country — the Kennedy Center Honor. A few years earlier, in 2006, he was given the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He also earned the BMI Icon Award. These are just a few of the many recognitions he received for his impact on music.
He was inducted into several halls of fame, including the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame. These honors show how much Merle meant to the music world.
Sadly, Merle passed away on his 79th birthday — April 6, 2016. He died peacefully at his home in Shasta County, California, surrounded by his family and close friends.
A Complex Personal Life
Merle’s personal life was full of ups and downs, including five marriages. His first wife was Leona Hobbs. They got married in 1956 and had four children: Dana, Marty, Kelli, and Noel. However, their marriage ended in 1964.
A year later, Merle married singer Bonnie Owens. She was not only his wife for 13 years, but also a close friend for life. Even after they divorced, they remained on good terms. Bonnie was so close to Merle that she was the maid of honor at his third wedding — to singer Leona Williams — in 1978. That marriage lasted about five years.
In 1985, he married Debbie Parret, but they went their separate ways in 1991.
Then, in 1993, Merle married Theresa Ann Lane. This marriage stood the test of time. They were still married when Merle died in 2016. Together, Merle and Theresa had two children — a daughter named Jenessa and a son named Ben. Theresa also joined Merle on stage during his live shows and often sang backup vocals for him.
A Musical Family
Many fans know that Merle had six children. But fewer people are aware that he actually had a seventh child — a son named Scott. Like some of Merle’s other sons, Scott has also made a name for himself in country music.
Let’s take a closer look at Merle’s sons, who are keeping his legacy alive through their music.
Marty Haggard – Born June 18, 1958
Marty is Merle’s oldest son. Before he focused on music, Marty tried his hand at acting. He landed a recurring role on the CBS show The Fitzpatricks and even appeared in a movie alongside legendary actor Henry Fonda.
Later, Marty turned to music and found success there as well. Between 1981 and 1987, he had five songs appear on the country music charts. One of his early songs was called “Charleston Cotton Mill.”
In the 1980s, Merle asked Marty to join his band, The Strangers. Marty played rhythm guitar and sang harmonies alongside his dad. His solo work also received attention — he was nominated for Top Male Vocalist at the ACM Awards in 1985.
After Merle passed away, Marty joined his brothers in performing their dad’s songs for fans around the country.
Noel Haggard – Born September 4, 1963
Noel, another one of Merle’s sons, also followed the path of country music. Some fans may recognize the song “Tell Me Something Bad About Tulsa,” which became a hit for George Strait in 2003. But many don’t know that Noel actually released his own version in 1991. The song was originally recorded by Merle in 1986 for his album Out Among the Stars.
Noel’s version of the song reached number 74 on the charts. He also toured with Merle and performed as part of The Strangers, just like his brother Marty.
Scott Haggard – Born December 1968
Scott’s story is a little different. Although he always knew Merle was his father, he didn’t grow up with the Haggard family. He lived a more ordinary life and worked as a truck driver after finishing high school.
But in 2006, Scott decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and pursue a career in country music. Since then, he’s shared the stage with several country music stars, including Jeff Bates, Charlie McCoy, and Mark Wills.
Scott writes his own songs but also honors his dad by performing his classics. One of his memorable performances was in 2012 at the Ross County Jamboree, where he sang Merle’s song “Silver Wings.”
Ben Haggard – Born December 14, 1992
Ben is the youngest of Merle’s sons and may be the most well-known among today’s country music fans. Despite his age, he was already performing on stage as a teenager, playing lead guitar for Merle’s band, The Strangers.
Ben’s talent is easy to see. He has a powerful voice and amazing guitar skills. He built his own fan base by posting videos online where he covers classic country songs and gospel tunes like “Amazing Grace.” His videos have reached thousands of fans on YouTube and Facebook.
Even after Merle passed, Ben continued to perform and share his father’s music with the world. He often takes the stage with his brothers to honor their dad’s memory.
A Family of Talent
Merle Haggard was not just a country music star — he was also a proud father. While he had his struggles and made mistakes, his love for his children was clear. Today, his sons continue to celebrate his legacy by keeping his music alive.
Whether it’s Marty’s smooth vocals, Noel’s songwriting, Scott’s heartfelt performances, or Ben’s guitar playing, the Haggard family continues to inspire country music fans around the world.
Their love for their father and their dedication to country music show that Merle Haggard’s legacy is far from over.
