Marty Stuart Reveals Wife Connie Smith’s Terminal Illness: “She’s My Heart”

Country music icon Marty Stuart, 65, has shared heartbreaking news—his wife, legendary singer Connie Smith, is facing a terminal illness. The couple had kept her diagnosis private until now, asking fans for their prayers and privacy during this deeply personal time.

Fighting back tears, Marty said, “It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever had to face. She’s my home, my heart.”

Connie, now in her late 70s, is a Country Music Hall of Famer, celebrated for her powerful voice, unshakable faith, and quiet strength. Her health has been declining over the past year, and recent medical tests confirmed their worst fears, though the specific illness has not been disclosed. “She’s been comforting me more than herself,” Marty said. “She’s walking through this with unbelievable grace.”

Their love story is one for the ages. Marty first admired Connie as a teenager in the 1960s, during her rise to fame. Years later, they reconnected, fell in love, and have been side by side ever since.

Though Connie has stepped away from the spotlight, she still sings softly at home and leans on her faith for strength. Marty shared, “Every moment with her is a blessing. She’s the strongest, bravest person I’ve ever known.”

Fans from across the country music community have flooded social media with love and support, celebrating Connie not only as a groundbreaking artist, but as a woman of remarkable spirit and grace.

“This isn’t goodbye,” Marty said. “It’s a chance to honor her—to celebrate the incredible woman she is, and always will be.”