Reba McEntire’s Genuine Personality and Family Life
Reba McEntire, the beloved musician and actress, is known for her warm and genuine nature. Contrary to what some might believe, this authenticity is not a marketing move to sell music but rather stems from her true personality.
She recently shared some intimate details in an interview about her family life, shedding light on how her country upbringing also influenced her parenting style, especially with her son, Shelby.
Reba’s journey is a testament to her genuine character. Born and raised on a ranch in Chockie, Oklahoma, the musical icon has always embraced her country roots. Growing up, Reba played in a family band and assisted with cattle, all while captivated by the world of rodeo—a passion passed down from her father and grandfather, both renowned rodeo champions.
The values instilled in her through her country upbringing remain deeply ingrained in her life. These lessons, taught by her parents, have been guiding principles that have shaped Reba into who she is today.
In a heartfelt conversation, Reba shared, “Mama and Daddy always said to me, ‘If you tell somebody you’re going to be somewhere at a certain time, you show up. That’s the way I was raised.’”
The early ’90s marked a pivotal moment for Reba, as she welcomed her son Shelby into the world. At the time, she was already a household name in the music industry. Despite her fame, Reba recognized the importance of staying grounded and imparting the right values to her son.
Reba faced numerous challenges while raising Shelby, but her commitment to her principles remained unwavering.
When it came to games and activities, she never let Shelby win easily. As she explained, “He wouldn’t have learned anything that way. I always told Shelby, ‘I’ll always love you, but I want other people to like you. So don’t be a little jerk. Don’t be a spoiled brat.’”
Shelby, now a successful race car driver, was raised by Reba and her ex-husband, Narvel Blackstock, with the understanding that mutual respect and humility are key virtues in life.
Reba proudly shared, “A lot of people have told me you would never know (he) had been blessed with the life he was given.”
She also opened up about her personal growth after becoming a mother. Before Shelby, Reba admitted to being a bit self-focused. However, Shelby’s arrival brought profound change and redirected her attention.
Reba deeply cherished her time with Shelby, even when professional responsibilities demanded her presence elsewhere. “I had the best nannies, and I took him on the road with me,” she recalled. “When I couldn’t, I would fly home after a concert, get him up in the morning, take him to school and pick him up. We’d play until I had to fly out again for a concert that night. I wanted to be with Shelby. Still do.”
Her openness extends to acknowledging Shelby’s challenges with ADHD during his childhood. Initially, reading was a struggle for him, but now, in his 30s, Shelby is an avid reader, always striving to better himself.
Reba beams with pride, “He’s always trying to improve and do better. His daddy did a great job too. Shelby is a gift from God to me. We’re very close. I was a very self-centered person to a degree before Shelby. But then there’s a little character who you are given the job to protect and nurture and love and teach, so all the attention’s not on you anymore.”
Reba’s happiness overflowed when Shelby married his beloved Marissa. Their wedding, held at the magical Walt Disney World, was nothing short of a fairytale come true.
It’s always heartening to hear stories about impactful parenting. What are your thoughts on Reba’s parenting style? Feel free to share your views!
