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 a highly celebrated American country music singer, songwriter, actor, music producer, and rancher. Known for his traditional country sound, he has achieved immense success throughout his career, becoming one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Strait has released numerous chart-topping albums and singles, earning him the title 'King of Country.' His contributions to the genre have solidified his status as an icon and a major influence on subsequent generations of country musicians.

Sections (4)

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

May 18, 1952: George Strait's Birth

On May 18, 1952, George Harvey Strait Sr. was born in Poteet, Texas. He would later become a very famous country singer.

December 4, 1971: Marriage to Norma Voss

On December 4, 1971, George Strait eloped with his high school sweetheart, Norma Voss, marrying in Mexico.

December 1971: Marriage to Norma

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

October 6, 1972: Birth of First Child

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

1975: Honorable Discharge from the Army

In 1975, George Strait was honorably discharged from the United States Army, having served as an infantryman and attained the rank of corporal.

1975: Enrollment at Southwest Texas State University

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

1981: Birth of son George Harvey Strait Jr.

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

1985: Establishment of Endowment Fund

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

June 25, 1986: Death of daughter Jenifer

On June 25, 1986, George Strait's daughter, Jenifer, tragically died in an automobile accident in San Marcos at the age of 13. The family subsequently established the Jenifer Lyn Strait Foundation to support children's charities in the San Antonio area.

1986: Death of Daughter Jenifer

In 1986, George Strait and his family experienced the tragic death of his 13-year-old daughter, Jenifer, in a car accident, leading to a significant limitation of his contact with the media.

May 26, 2006: Honorary Doctoral Degree

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

2006: Son's rodeo competition

In 2006, George Strait was able to watch his son, George Strait Jr., compete in team-roping at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo shortly before taking the stage for his own performance.

April 10, 2009: Death of brother John Byron Strait

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

2010: Spokesman for Wrangler National Patriot program

Since 2010, George Strait has served as a spokesman for the Wrangler National Patriot program, which raises awareness and funds for wounded and fallen military veterans and their families. He also appeared in commercials for Tractor Supply Company.

February 2012: Became a grandfather

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

September 26, 2012: Retirement announcement

On September 26, 2012, George Strait announced his retirement from touring, stating that his Cowboy Rides Away Tour would be his last.

July 2025: Central Texas Floods

In July 2025, Central Texas communities experienced floods, prompting George Strait to organize a relief concert later that month.

July 27, 2025: Relief concert in Boerne

On July 27, 2025, George Strait organized an intimate relief concert in Boerne to aid communities affected by the July 2025 Central Texas floods. The concert raised $6.25M.