Reba McEntire understands the weight of loss and the depths of suffering all too well. The year 1991 marked a pivotal moment in her life, as she endured an unimaginable tragedy that forever changed her. On March 16, 1991, following a captivating performance at a prestigious event in San Diego, an aircraft disaster claimed the lives of her trusted tour manager and seven beloved band members.
Unforeseen Circumstances
Arrangements had been made for the band members to fly from Brown Field Municipal Airport to Fort Wayne, Indiana, for their next concert. Reba, her then-husband and manager Narvel Blackstock, and her stylist Sandi Spika remained in San Diego for the night while the band and tour manager boarded the first plane. In a moving interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2012, Reba recounted the events of that night. While the second plane took off and landed without incident, tragedy struck the first plane just ten miles east of the airport. The plane’s wing hit a boulder on the edge of Otay Mountain, resulting in the loss of everyone on board.
A Night of Despair
Narvel Blackstock was the bearer of the devastating news. He approached Reba’s pilot late at night, around two or three in the morning, and informed him of the accident. Narvel then returned to the hotel room where Reba awaited updates. In a state of shock and despair, Reba inquired about their friends, clinging to a glimmer of hope. However, Narvel’s response shattered her hopes, as he expressed his uncertainty about their survival.
Seeking Answers
Reba vividly recalled the frantic search for answers in the wake of the tragedy. With genuine emotion, she described how Narvel paced from room to room, clutching a phone, desperately seeking information. “It’s been 20 years, but the sorrow never really goes away,” she admitted. The memory of that night remained etched in her mind, a testament to the deep pain she endured.
Support and Resilience
During this time of intense grief, Reba found solace in the unwavering support of close friends like Vince Gill and Dolly Parton. In the aftermath of the tragedy, these compassionate friends offered their bands to help complete Reba’s tour. Despite their generosity, Reba chose to decline and instead embarked on a personal journey of healing. She poured her heart into her next album, “For My Broken Heart,” as a heartfelt tribute to her lost bandmates. The album resonated deeply with fans, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and selling an impressive four million copies.
Honoring the Fallen
Every year, Reba faithfully remembers those who perished in the tragic incident. She uses social media to ensure their memory lives on. In 2014, she created a touching memorial on Instagram to commemorate the anniversary of the crash. In 2016, on the 25th anniversary of the tragedy, Reba embarked on a poignant pilgrimage to San Diego, a city that holds a special place in her heart. She shared this momentous journey with her followers, offering a glimpse into her ongoing recovery.
A Heartfelt Message
Reflecting on the 25th anniversary, Reba penned a heartfelt note: “Today is the 25th anniversary of the plane crash. I returned to San Diego in November and took a helicopter to the scene of the tragic collision. I was overcome by the overpowering impression that people who have passed on know how much we miss them. My condolences and prayers are overflowing for all the families and friends affected by this tragedy.”
Reba McEntire’s journey through unimaginable loss and her dedication to honoring the memory of her fallen bandmates is a testament to her resilience and enduring strength. Through her music and heartfelt tributes, she continues to inspire and connect with her fans, keeping the memory of those lost alive in the hearts of many.
