The Children of Waylon Jennings: A Legacy Beyond the Music
Waylon Jennings was more than just a country music icon — he was a father, a guiding force, and a man whose legacy lives on through his children. Each one has walked a unique path, yet all carry a piece of his outlaw spirit.
Terry Vance Jennings, born January 21, 1957, was Waylon’s eldest, from his marriage to Maxine Lawrence. Growing up in the heart of West Texas, Terry left school at 15 to join his father’s world, first selling merchandise, then becoming a drum technician and road manager. Later, he founded Corbin Music Group and managed Waylon’s publishing. His 2016 memoir, Waylon: Tales of My Outlaw Dad, offered an intimate portrait of their bond. In January 2019, Terry passed away at 62, his cause of death kept private.
Julie Rae Jennings, born August 12, 1958, was a devoted wife and a vibrant presence in her father’s career. She worked alongside him while nurturing a deep love for family and cooking. Julie passed away in 2014 at 56 after a battle with cancer. Terry would later call her “the only person Dad ever feared.”
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Buddy Dean Jennings, born March 21, 1960, was named in honor of Buddy Holly, who had died in a plane crash just a year before. Like his siblings, Buddy has worked to keep Waylon’s memory alive, attending tribute events, sharing rare family moments online, and often appearing at his brother Shooter’s shows.
Dena Jennings, the youngest from Waylon’s first marriage, was born August 27, 1964. She lived a private life, away from the public eye, before passing in 2015.
From Waylon’s enduring love with singer Jessi Colter came Shooter Jennings, born May 19, 1979. Blending hard rock and outlaw country, Shooter has forged his own musical identity, releasing ten albums since his debut in 2005. On February 13, 2002, he lost his father to diabetic complications — a moment he honored with the song “I’ve Always Been Crazy” during Waylon’s memorial.
Waylon also adopted Tommy Lynn during his marriage to Lynn Jones, though little is known about her private life. Through Jessi Colter’s previous marriage to Duane Eddy came Jennifer Eddy Jennings, who, though not Waylon’s biological daughter, grew up in his family and sometimes sang backing vocals. Her son, country-rapper Struggle Jennings, and granddaughter Brianna Harness continue the family’s musical legacy.
Together, Waylon Jennings’ children embody the many shades of his life — the grit, the heart, the music, and the quiet moments away from the spotlight. Through them, his story plays on.