Rory Feek Marks 10 Years Since Wife Joey Feek's Death

The country singer pays tribute to his late wife, who died of cervical cancer in 2016 at age 40.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Rory Feek is honoring his late wife Joey Feek, who passed away 10 years ago after a battle with cervical cancer. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Rory reflected on Joey's bravery, faith, and the lasting impact she had on the world through her music and life. He also discussed the next chapter for their family, including his remarriage to their daughter's schoolteacher, Rebecca, in 2024.

Why it matters

Joey Feek's story resonated with millions of people, as she faced her terminal illness with unwavering courage and grace. Her passing was a profound loss for the country music community, but her legacy continues to inspire others who are dealing with similar challenges. Rory's tribute highlights the enduring love and impact of their partnership, both personally and professionally.

The details

Rory Feek, 60, took to Instagram on March 4, 2026 to pay tribute to his late wife Joey, who died 10 years earlier at the age of 40 after a battle with cervical cancer. In the post, Rory described Joey as "by far, the bravest person I've ever met," noting that she "never once complained, never felt sorry for herself and never stopped believing that somehow, all of this was part of a larger plan." Rory also reflected on Joey's character, saying that while she was known for her physical beauty and talent, her inner spirit was what truly defined her. In the final weeks of her life, Joey encouraged Rory to find love again, and he did, marrying their daughter Indiana's schoolteacher, Rebecca, in 2024.

  • Joey Feek died on March 4, 2016.
  • Rory Feek remarried to Rebecca on July 14, 2024, eight years after Joey's passing.

The players

Rory Feek

A 60-year-old country music singer and songwriter who was married to Joey Feek until her death in 2016. He has since remarried and continues to honor Joey's legacy.

Joey Feek

Rory's late wife, a country music singer who passed away in 2016 at the age of 40 after a battle with cervical cancer. She was known for her bravery, faith, and the lasting impact she had through her music and life.

Rebecca

Rory's current wife, who he married in 2024. She is the schoolteacher of Rory and Joey's daughter, Indiana.

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What they’re saying

“Ten years ago today… Joey took her last breath here in this world and a moment later, her very first one in Heaven. And though her time on earth was through, her impact on the world was just beginning. In the months and years that followed, millions of people have been moved, touched and inspired by her music and even more so, her life.”

— Rory Feek (Instagram)

“Through her two year battle with cervical cancer, she never once complained, never felt sorry for herself and never stopped believing that somehow, all of this was part of a larger plan, and that one day we would see the purpose that only He could see at the time.”

— Rory Feek (Instagram)

“As pretty as she was, she was even more beautiful on the inside. In the end, when all of the external beauty was taken, it only made room for the light inside her to shine even brighter.”

— Rory Feek (Instagram)

The takeaway

Joey Feek's story continues to inspire people around the world, even a decade after her passing. Her unwavering faith, courage, and selfless love in the face of terminal illness serve as a powerful example of how to live life to the fullest, even in the most difficult of circumstances. Rory's tribute highlights the enduring impact of their partnership and the ways in which Joey's legacy lives on through her music, her family, and the millions she touched with her life.