Remembering Charlie Daniels – Inside His Life as a Father to Charlie Jr
After several years of dominating the country music industry, Charles Daniels has died at the age of 83 — here are some details about the iconic entertainer.
Up until the moment he died of a hemorrhagic stroke on July 6, Charles Edward Daniels was known as a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and the father of Charles Edward Daniels Jr.
Charlie Daniels with son Charlie Daniels Jr. and wife Hazel at the T.J. Martell Foundation 35th Annual Awards Gala at Marriot Marquis on October 27, 2010 in New York City | Photo: Getty Images
Throughout his lifetime, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” crooner made it clear that his family was just as —if not more — important to him as his music career. Despite his good intentions towards his family, the singer-songwriter usually ended up missing several milestones.
Charles and Hazel celebrated their 50th anniversary by returning to Oklahoma — which is where they got married in 1964.
During a 2019 chat with CNS News, Charles talked about the years he spent away from home that resulted in him missing events such as anniversaries and birthday celebrations.
Regardless of his frequent absence from home, Charles’ wife, Hazel Juanita Alexander, remained by his side as she “never lost sight” of what her husband was trying to achieve.
Charles, in fact, noted that Hazel was dedicated to giving him space and help he needed to achieve his goals. The late 83-year-old didn’t even slow down when he turned 75 in 2011.
The Boot reported that he planned to make a special appearance at the Country Music Hall of Fame, performing at a Louisville show, and then showing up at a birthday party at the Grand Ole Opry. During a conversation with the news outlet, the legendary entertainer said:
“I woke up 75 this morning and I can't tell you how it is to be that way, because I ain't had enough experience yet.”
Later in 2014, the late county music star marked his son’s 49th birthday with a tweet that read, “Charlie Jr. Turns 49 today HAPPY BIRTHDAY SON YOUR MOTHER AND ME LOVE YOU VERY MUCH.”
Charles also marked several other milestones, including the 55th anniversary of his first single, “Jaguar” and the 35th anniversary of his story-song “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” in the same year.
Oklahoman, however, revealed that the most significant celebration for him was crossing the 50-year milestone in his marriage. Charles and Hazel celebrated their 50th anniversary by returning to Oklahoma — which is where they got married in 1964.