George Strait Eloped With His Wife When They Were Teens & They’re Still Going Strong 5 Decades On

Feb 22, 2023

George Strait is an American country music singer, songwriter, actor and music producer. Known as the "King of Country Music," he is one of the most influential and successful country music artists of all time.

George was born on May 18, 1952, in Poteet, Texas, and grew up in a ranching family in South Texas, where he developed a love for country music from an early age. His father owned a 2,000-acre cattle ranch in Pearsall, Texas. George spent much of his childhood helping his father on the ranch, but he was also drawn to music. As a teenager, he played in a rock and roll garage band, but it wasn't until he attended college at Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos that he discovered his love for country music.

After college, Strait enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Hawaii for four years. After his military service ended, George returned to Texas and began playing in local bars and clubs. In 1975, he formed a band called Ace in the Hole, which became his backup band for many years.

George's big break came in 1981 when he signed a recording contract with MCA Records. His first single, "Unwound," was released later that year and became a top 10 hit on the country music charts. Over the next decade, George released a string of hit songs, including "Amarillo By Morning," "The Chair" and "All My Ex's Live in Texas." His smooth voice and traditional country sound quickly made him one of the most popular country music artists of the 1980s.

Despite his immense success, George has remained down-to-earth and dedicated to his family. Read on to find out about his beautiful love story with his wife and how far they’ve come since.

In 2013, after more than 30 years of recording and performing, George announced that he would be retiring from touring. However, Strait has continued to record music, and in 2015 he released his 29th studio album, "Cold Beer Conversation."

George has often cited his family as his greatest inspiration, and he has worked hard to balance his music career with his responsibilities as a husband and father. He has been married to his high school sweetheart, Norma Strait, for over 50 years, and their relationship is a testament to the power of love and commitment. The pair had two children, Jenifer and George Strait Jr., whom they fondly call Bubba. Over the years, they faced their fair share of challenges, including the loss of Jenifer in a car accident in 1986 when she was only 13 years old. However, their love has only grown stronger through it all.

George and Norma met when they were just teenagers in Pearsall, Texas. He told Houston Radio Station 100.3 The Bull:

“We knew each other forever, growing up in a small town," George said as reported by Country Living. “I never really even thought anything about her, but then one day I asked her out and we went on a date. We didn’t see each other for a long time after that. Then one day, I thought, ‘I’m missing the boat here,’ and we started dating again.”

They then eloped in Mexico on Dec. 4, 1971, when George was just 19 years old. 

One of the key factors in George and Norma's relationship is their mutual respect and admiration for each other. George has always spoken highly of his wife, crediting her with keeping him grounded and helping him navigate the challenges of fame and success. 

Norma, for her part, has always been a supportive and loving partner to George. She raised their children, helped manage their family ranch, and stood by his side throughout his music career. Despite George's fame and the attention it brings, Norma has always remained private and humble, never seeking the spotlight for herself.

George cited her as one of his biggest blessings in life to People in 2012 and said:

“Norma and I are so blessed that we found each other 41 years ago and were able to do all of this together, experience this life together, to support each other through everything, good times and bad. We do almost everything together. … We love each other and we still like each other. A lot!”

During a performance in 2021 that coincided with the couple's 50th wedding anniversary, George singled out his wife and wished her a happy golden anniversary. He stopped between songs and said:

“So I was 19 years old. And I knew this girl, Norma, she was 17, really hot,” he said with a smile.

He added:

"We went to Mexico and eloped ... 50 years ago today."

The country legend then performed the incredibly fitting song "I Cross My Heart," before he once again pointed in Norma's direction and said "Happy anniversary." The crowd couldn't get enough of the sweet moment, as they cheered the lovebirds on. 

Overall, George and Norma's relationship is a testament to the power of love, commitment and shared values. They have been together for over 50 years, and their love has only grown stronger with time. Their story is a reminder that true love is not just about romance and passion, but about mutual respect, support, and a shared vision for the future.

What do you make of George and Norma’s long-lasting love? Which of George’s songs do you connect with the most? Let us know, and be sure to pass this on to all the country music fans and lovebirds you know.