Toby Keith Posthumously Honored With “Special Directors’ Award” From National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
on Feb 04, 2026
Remembering Country Music Icon Toby Keith
Country music icon Toby Keith passed away on February 5, 2024 at just 62 years old. The country singer died following a battle with stomach cancer.
He first shared his diagnosis in 2021 and took a hiatus from performing to prioritize treatment and cherished moments with his loved ones.
Since his death, Keith has been honored in a number of ways and remains one of the most influential country music legends of all time.
Shortly after his death, he received an honorary degree, accepted by his daughter Krystal, from the University of Oklahoma. While Keith did not personally attend OU as a student, he was a lifelong fan and supporter of the university.
Earlier this year, Oklahoma State Senator Lisa Standridge (R-Norman) filed legislation intended to honor the life and legacy of Keith, a native of the “Sooner State.”
RELATED: Toby Keith’s Kids Say They’re Learning To “Live Differently” After Losing Their Dad
Toby Keith Honored With “Special Directors’ Award”
Thursday (February 5) marks two years without Toby Keith here on this earth. His memory, however, continues to leave a remarkable impact.
One day ahead of the heartbreaking anniversary, Keith’s social media account posted that the late singer was being honored with the Special Directors’ Award from the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum this year.
“Toby’s family is grateful to the museum for recognizing his place in history and how his career served and celebrated the country and Western way of life,” the caption read.
Located in Oklahoma City, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is America’s premier institution for Western history, art, and culture.
Founded in 1955, the museum features extensive collections of Native American art, cowboy gear, and Western film memorabilia, including a 13,000-square-foot replica of a turn-of-the-century town.
The event, which aims to “honor individuals, films, literature, and music that preserve and promote the culture, values, and history of the American West,” is set to take place in Keith’s home state of Oklahoma.
The country music singer will posthumously receive the honor at the 65th Western Heritage Awards, occurring April 10 and 11. Other honorees this year include Hall of Great Western Performers Ed Harris and Kenny Rogers.
