Childhood and Education Journey of George Strait in Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of George Strait. From birth to education, explore key events.

George Strait is an American country music icon celebrated for his traditional sound and consistent success. Known as the "King of Country," he has achieved a remarkable number of number-one hits and platinum-selling albums, shaping the landscape of country music for decades. Beyond his musical achievements, Strait has also dabbled in acting, further cementing his status as a prominent figure in American entertainment. His dedication to traditional country roots has earned him a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

January 11, 1922: Birth of John Byron Strait Sr.

On January 11, 1922, John Byron Strait Sr., George Strait's father, was born.

June 26, 1930: Birth of Doris Jean Couser

On June 26, 1930, Doris Jean Couser, George Strait's mother, was born.

1950: Birth of Brother John 'Buddy' Jr.

In 1950, George Strait's brother, John "Buddy" Jr. was born.

May 18, 1952: George Strait's Birth

On May 18, 1952, George Harvey Strait Sr. was born in Poteet, Texas, to John Byron Strait Sr. and Doris Jean Couser.

December 4, 1971: Marriage to Norma Voss in Mexico

On December 4, 1971, George Strait eloped with his high school sweetheart, Norma Voss, and married her in Mexico after their high school graduation.

December 1971: Elopement with Norma

In December 1971, George Strait eloped with his high school sweetheart, Norma, in Mexico.

October 6, 1972: Birth of Daughter Jenifer

On October 6, 1972, while stationed in Hawaii, George and Norma Strait had their first child, Jenifer.

1975: Honorable Discharge from the Army

In 1975, George Strait was honorably discharged from the United States Army, having attained the rank of corporal.

1975: Enrollment at Southwest Texas State University

In 1975, after being honorably discharged from the Army, George Strait enrolled at Southwest Texas State University (now Texas State University) in San Marcos.

1981: Birth of son, George Harvey Strait Jr.

In 1981, George Strait and his wife Norma welcomed their son, George Harvey Strait Jr., also known as Bubba.

1983: Starts the George Strait Team Roping Classic

From 1983, George Strait hosted The George Strait Team Roping Classic, an annual team-roping event, until 2017.

1985: Establishment of Endowment Fund

In 1985, George Strait established an endowment fund for the development and operation of the Freeman Ranch for agricultural purposes, land and wildlife management, and scholarships at Texas State University.

1986: Death of Daughter Jenifer

In 1986, George Strait's 13-year-old daughter, Jenifer, was killed in a one-car accident. The incident led to Strait limiting his contact with the media.

May 26, 2006: Honorary Doctoral Degree

On May 26, 2006, George Strait was presented an honorary doctoral degree by Texas State University in San Marcos.

2006: Strait watches his son compete

In 2006, George Strait watched his son compete at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, prior to taking the stage for his own performance.

April 10, 2009: Death of George Strait's brother

On April 10, 2009, George Strait's older brother, John Byron "Buddy" Strait, passed away at the age of 58.

2009: Death of Brother John 'Buddy' Jr.

In 2009, George Strait's brother, John "Buddy" Jr. passed away.

2010: Spokesman for Wrangler National Patriot program

Since 2010, George Strait has served as a spokesman for the Wrangler National Patriot program, a campaign to raise awareness and funds for wounded and fallen military veterans and their families.

February 2012: Becomes a grandfather

In February 2012, George Strait became a grandfather when his son, George Strait Jr., and his wife Tamara had their first child, a son named George Harvey Strait III.

2012: Vaqueros Del Mar Golf Tournament Began

In 2012, George Strait and Tom Cusick's Vaqueros Del Mar Invitational Golf Tournament and Concert began raising money for David Feherty's Troops First Foundation at Tapatio Springs Resort.

June 1, 2013: Last Concert of Farewell Tour

On June 1, 2013, George Strait performed at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, for the last concert of the first half of his two-year farewell tour. Governor Rick Perry announced that May 18, Strait's birthday, would be George Strait Day in Texas each year.