George Strait and his wife, Norma, have shared a love story that has endured for decades. Growing up in the same town, they didn’t initially see each other romantically, but after dating and briefly drifting apart, George realized how much he valued Norma and worked to win her heart again. They eloped in 1971, marrying in a small Texas church, just before George enlisted in the U.S. Army. Their life together included the joy of having two children, Jennifer and Bubba, but tragedy struck when Jennifer passed away in a car accident just before her 14th birthday. Despite this heartbreaking loss, George and Norma’s bond remained unshaken. Their shared strength helped them cope, and they never wavered in their commitment to each other.

Norma, who had been a stay-at-home mom, began joining George on tour after their son went to college. Their mutual affection is evident, as George once told PEOPLE, “We do almost everything together… We love each other and we still like each other. A lot!” In 2021, they celebrated their 50th anniversary, with George serenading Norma during a concert in Las Vegas, sharing a touching song that resonated with fans. Their unwavering love, especially in the face of public scrutiny and personal loss, is a testament to their enduring commitment and proves that true love can withstand the trials of time.