Pat Boone, the legendary singer whose charm and wholesome hits made him a household name in the 1950s, is living a life filled with faith, resilience, and new pursuits at 90. After the passing of his beloved wife, Shirley, Boone has had to adapt to life without his life partner of 65 years. Despite this profound loss, Pat has continued to find purpose and meaning, drawing on his faith, family, and the legacy he’s built through his long and versatile career. Here’s an intimate look at how Pat Boone is navigating his life today.
A Glimpse Into Pat Boone’s Storied Career
Pat Boone’s career is as remarkable as it is diverse. Born on June 1, 1934, in Jacksonville, Florida, Boone quickly rose to fame in the 1950s. He was known for his clean-cut image and pop renditions of rock and roll hits, which introduced him to a young audience that admired his talent and charisma. After winning a local talent contest, Boone made appearances on popular television variety shows like “Ted Mack,” “Arthur Godfrey Talent Scouts,” and “Original Amateur Hour.”
In 1955, his breakthrough came with his recording of “Two Hearts, Two Kisses,” the start of a successful relationship with Dot Records. Later that year, his cover of Fats Domino’s “Ain’t That a Shame” became a major hit. Boone’s ability to reimagine songs by well-known African American artists helped bridge the gap between audiences, with his versions of songs like “Long Tall Sally” and “Tutti Frutti” by Little Richard gaining widespread appeal.
From Pop Icon to Gospel Musician
Though Boone’s popularity among young audiences declined with the rise of the British Invasion in the 1960s, he reinvented himself, exploring gospel music in the 1970s. Albums like Pat Boone Sings the New Songs of the Jesus People (1972) and The Pat Boone Gospel Collection (1978) showcased his faith-driven approach to music. This shift marked Boone’s evolving career, proving that he could adapt to changing times while remaining true to his values.
One of his most unexpected ventures came in 1997, when he released a heavy metal album titled In a Metal Mood: No More Mr. Nice Guy. This departure from his usual sound both shocked and amused fans, especially with rock legend Alice Cooper making an appearance on the album. Boone’s ability to surprise his audience and stay relevant across generations has made him a rare fixture in the entertainment world.
A Love Story for the Ages: Pat and Shirley Boone
While Pat Boone’s career is celebrated, his love story with Shirley Boone is equally unforgettable. Pat met Shirley when they were both just 16 years old, and their connection was undeniable. By the time they turned 19, they knew they couldn’t be apart. When Shirley’s family prepared to move away, Pat asked her father, country music legend Red Foley, for permission to marry her. Red’s only request was, “Will you take care of my girl?” With a promise to do so, Pat and Shirley married in November 1953.
The couple settled in Teaneck, New Jersey, where they raised four daughters. Their lives were rooted in family values, faith, and a love that spanned over six decades. In Beverly Hills, where they eventually moved, they built a life filled with joy and commitment, surrounded by their expanding family of 16 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Shirley was more than just Pat’s wife; she was a beloved mother, a best-selling author, a recording artist, and a compassionate humanitarian. Together, Pat and Shirley made a significant impact through Christian ministry, establishing a billion-dollar Christian organization and spreading hope to countless people.
The Power of Faith in Pat and Shirley’s Marriage
Pat Boone often speaks of the role faith played in his marriage, crediting their shared beliefs for helping them overcome challenges. “We didn’t have the perfect marriage, but it helps to marry a magnificent woman,” Pat once shared. Their faith allowed them to face difficult times with strength, and their love for each other only grew as they walked through life together.
This unshakeable bond sustained them until Shirley’s passing on January 11, 2019. At 84, she passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by Pat and their daughters, who sang hymns to comfort her. Reflecting on her departure, Pat expressed his sorrow and faith, saying, “I’ve parted with my better half for a little while… but we don’t die, we just move on to another place, and today was moving day.”
Finding Purpose After Loss: Pat Boone’s Life Today
At 90, Pat Boone continues to honor Shirley’s memory while embracing life’s new chapters. He finds solace in his faith and family and remains active in projects that allow him to express his love for music and his country. In recent years, he has focused on patriotic and devotional works through his record label, “The Gold Label,” which he launched in the early 2000s.
Through this platform, Boone has produced albums such as American Glory (2002) and Legacy (2014), working with a diverse range of artists to celebrate the values he holds dear. His commitment to creating meaningful work has not wavered, even in the face of profound personal loss.
Embracing Family and Faith in His Golden Years
Pat Boone’s family continues to be a source of strength and joy in his life. His daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren keep him engaged and surrounded by love. With them, he celebrates life’s milestones and shares stories of the incredible journey he and Shirley had together.
Faith remains central to his life. Boone continues to be an active member of his Christian community, using his platform to inspire others. He often speaks about the importance of perseverance and gratitude, drawing from his own experiences and the legacy he shared with Shirley.
A Legacy of Resilience and Reinvention
Pat Boone’s life is a story of resilience and reinvention. From his days as a teen pop sensation to his venture into gospel and even heavy metal, Boone has never been afraid to take risks and evolve. His ability to adapt to new challenges, both in his career and personal life, is a testament to his enduring spirit.
Through it all, he has remained steadfast in his values, using his success to make a positive impact. Whether through music, family, or faith, Boone’s legacy is one of sincerity, warmth, and an unbreakable bond with those he loves.
Conclusion: Living with Faith, Family, and an Undying Love
Today, Pat Boone is a shining example of resilience, faith, and love. Despite the heartache of losing his beloved Shirley, he continues to live a life filled with purpose, dedication, and gratitude. His commitment to family, his enduring faith, and his dedication to music have kept him active and inspired, even as he approaches a century of life.
Boone’s story reminds us that even after a profound loss, life can hold meaning and joy. Through his journey, he has shown that love, faith, and family can sustain us through life’s most difficult challenges. For Pat Boone, life after 90 is still a song worth singing, filled with the love of a remarkable woman and a legacy that will resonate for generations.
