Longtime Grand Lake area resident Toby Keith dies at 62

GROVE, Okla. — Country Music Superstar Toby Keith died overnight. Summer of 2022 he disclosed a stomach cancer diagnosis. His family release the following statement:

“ Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5th, surrounded by his family. He fought his fight with grace and courage .”

Keith was an Oklahoma native (born in Clinton, Okla.) and had a home in the Grand Lake area. He flew into Grove Regional Airport often, building a friendship with the manager and staff.

Grove Oklahoma Regional Airport Manager, Lisa Briscoe-Jewett shared a photo with KOAM saying, “ Rest in Peace, friend. I have absolutely no doubt you are walking the Streets of Gold this morning .”

Keith was married to Tricia Lucus for 40 years after the two first met at a bar. The two dated for three years before deciding to tie the knot. In 2001, Lucus told People , “ I was 19 and he was 20. He was just one of those larger-than-life guys, full of confidence. ”

Many Joplin area people are sharing their thoughts online, or their friendly encounters with Keith. We will compile some and share them here, check back.