George Strait, a legendary country icon often called the “King of Country,” is not just a music legend but also a father who’s known both joy and heartbreak. Here’s the factual and largely complete narrative of his two children — his daughter Jenifer who passed away and his living son, Bubba, who continues the family legacy.
Family beginnings and children’s birth
George Strait eloped with his high school sweetheart, Norma Voss, on December 4, 1971, in Mexico. They had two children together: Jenifer Lyn Strait (born October 6, 1972) and George Harvey “Bubba” Strait Jr. (born in 1981).
Tragedy with daughter — Jenifer Lyn Strait
On June 25, 1986, 13-year-old Jenifer died in a car accident in San Marcos, Texas. The vehicle flipped during a turn, and she was not wearing a seatbelt. Her death left a deep mark on George and Norma. For many years afterward, George avoided interviews, saying he “just didn’t feel like talking about it.”
In 1987, the Strait family established the Jenifer Lyn Strait Memorial Foundation to support children’s charities around San Antonio, as a way to remember Jenifer. Many fans believe George’s song “You’ll Be There” is a tribute to Jenifer, though he never officially confirmed it.
Life path and achievements of Bubba Strait
George “Bubba” Strait Jr. pursued a rodeo career after graduating from Texas A&M. During his roping days, he suffered a serious injury when his index finger got caught in a loop. Later, Bubba transitioned into the music world, collaborating with his father.
Among their notable joint compositions: “Living for the Night” (2009) — co-written by George, Bubba, and Dean Dillon — marking one of George’s first singles with co-writing credits. Bubba also wrote “Arkansas Dave”, and Father and son performed it together during George’s final tour The Cowboy Rides Away in 2014.
Bubba married Tamara Strait (a former dancer turned realtor) in December 2010. They have two children: George “Harvey” Strait III (born in 2012) and Jilliann Louise Strait (born in 2016).
His son Harvey was brought onstage by George at the Houston Rodeo in 2019 to perform “God and Country Music” together. George has mentioned that Harvey tried drums briefly, and Jilliann has sung short bits — though it’s too early to tell whether she will follow in musical footsteps.
Recent challenges & current life
Recently, Bubba and Tamara were named in a lawsuit from a San Antonio construction firm, which claimed unpaid work and contract breaches on a home remodel, demanding over $100,000 in damages. This may represent a new personal challenge for the Strait family.
Despite hardship, George Strait continues to command respect in the country world. In 2024, he was honored with the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award at the CMA Awards. He used his acceptance speech to thank his family — Norma, Bubba, Tamara, and his grandchildren — for their support.
Legacy and significance
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Jenifer, though she lived only 13 years, left a lasting emotional legacy, influencing George and Norma deeply and shaping some of George’s later musical expressions.
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Bubba carries forward not just the family name, but the artistic spirit — bridging the world of rodeo and country, writing songs, collaborating with his father, and performing alongside him.
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The Strait family remains closely knit, and even in the face of tragedy and legal troubles, George’s steadfastness in both career and family is a source of inspiration.