Reba's Loss
- Reba is co-hosting the 2020 Country Music Awards with Darius Rucker.
- Reba’s mom, Jacqueline McEntire, died in March 2020 at age 93 following a battle with cancer.
- Managing grief following the cancer-related loss of a parent can be helped by therapy and support groups.
Related: Patrick Dempsey's Advice to Cancer Caregivers: Take Care of Yourself, Too
Read More
View this post on Instagram
Reba Loses Her Mom
Reba’s mom, gospel singer Jacqueline McEntire, died in March 2020 at age 93 following a battle with cancer. Reba called it a “blessing” to be in quarantine when she lost her mom. For many, the emotions of grief can be debilitating and overwhelming retreating and turning inward is often a necessary part of the process. Reba mourned the loss alongside her siblings while in quarantine.
After her mom’s death, the singer shared a sweet picture of her alongside her mom, saying: “This is us always having each other's backs. Tight knit family. She taught us that. #mama.”
View this post on Instagram
This is us always having each other's backs. Tight knit family. She taught us that. #mama
Having a strong support system, like a tight-knit family, can help mitigate the suffering of grief that follows the loss of a parent.
Sadness Is Not Always A Bad Thing Coping After Losing A Parent To Cancer
Coping with Cancer Loss
Whether it’s a parent like it was for Reba or just a loved one or even a colleague, a cancer loss can be tough to handle. Resources like therapy, and practices and behaviors like vulnerability and reaching out for help can make the grief journey one that is easier to travel.
For Reba, opening up about her mom was part of the process. On the day Jacqueline died, Reba shared the news with fans and loved ones in a heartfelt Instagram post which paid tribute to her mom, thanked her caregivers, and talked about how she would be reunited with loved ones, like Reba’s late father. The singer wrote:
“Our Mother, Jacqueline McEntire, made that wonderful cross over into Heaven today. She had a wonderful, full, healthy life and was absolutely ready to go. The cancer might think it won the battle but we're giving God all the credit on selecting the time for her to go home to Him. She was ready to see our Daddy, her mama and daddy and all her family and friends…She left knowing how much she is loved and we all know how much she loved us. We are very thankful…”
While the loss of a parent is tragic, we’re proud of Reba’s resilience in the face of hardship. We know she’ll dazzle at the CMAs with her indomitable spirit and big heart
"Therapy Saved My Life": After Losing A Loved One, Don't Be Afraid To Ask For Help
Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.
