When you think of Brenda Lee, you probably hear her timeless voice belting out “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” But behind her decades-long success is someone who never stepped into the spotlight—yet played a key role in her personal and professional journey. That man is Ronnie Shacklett, Brenda Lee’s husband of over 60 years.
Ronnie isn’t a music star, but he’s part of one of the longest and most stable love stories in showbiz. Let’s take a deeper look at who he is, how their bond began, and the solid life they’ve built together.
Who Is Ronnie Shacklett?
Ronnie Shacklett, whose full name is Charles Ronald Shacklett, was born in 1944 in Nashville, Tennessee. As of 2024, he’s 80 years old and still lives in Nashville with Brenda. Though the world knows him as Brenda Lee’s husband, Ronnie has his own quiet presence and identity.
Standing 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing around 154 pounds, Ronnie has always kept a low profile. He comes from a Christian family and is the son of Earl C. Shacklett. Over the years, he’s worked in business but never chased the limelight himself.
How Did Ronnie Shacklett and Brenda Lee Meet?
Their love story began like a scene from a romantic movie. In 1962, a teenage Ronnie attended a music industry gathering in Nashville. It was there he first met Brenda Lee, already a rising star with a powerful voice and big dreams.
At just 18 years old, Ronnie was instantly drawn to her energy and charm. The two quickly formed a connection, and within months, they decided to tie the knot. On April 24, 1963, they got married—a move that surprised some but has stood the test of time for over six decades.
What Makes Their Marriage So Strong?
In an industry where relationships often fall apart under public pressure, Brenda and Ronnie have created a partnership that’s built to last. What’s their secret?
Mutual Respect and Communication
They’ve both said that the success of their marriage comes from listening to each other and respecting their individual roles. Ronnie never tried to steal the spotlight from Brenda but instead stood beside her, offering the stability she needed.
Strong Family Values
They’ve raised two daughters, Jolie and Julie, who have been kept away from the harsh glare of fame. Family has always come first, and that tight-knit dynamic is a major reason why their bond has remained so strong.
Choosing a Low-Profile Life
Even though Brenda was world-famous, Ronnie chose a life outside of public attention. Their marriage wasn’t based on appearances—it was about real connection and shared values.
What Role Did Ronnie Play in Brenda Lee’s Career?
Ronnie may not have been on stage, but his role behind the scenes was just as important. As Brenda’s fame grew, she needed a solid foundation to keep her grounded. Ronnie provided just that.
He supported her through tours, recordings, and all the challenges that come with a successful music career. With Ronnie at home managing the family and offering emotional support, Brenda could focus on her artistry without sacrificing stability.
Brenda has openly credited him with helping her balance the demands of fame with the joys of family life. In many ways, Ronnie was her anchor—keeping her focused, loved, and understood.
What Are Some Little-Known Facts About Ronnie and Brenda’s Life Together?
There are a few interesting nuggets that make their story even more special:
- Brenda was only 19 when she married Ronnie—a young age, especially by today’s standards.
- They’ve been married for over 60 years, a rare feat in the world of entertainment.
- They’ve been active in charity work, giving back to their Nashville community in quiet but meaningful ways.
- They avoided Hollywood drama and kept their life mostly private, proving that lasting love doesn’t need an audience.
How Have They Managed to Keep Their Lives So Private?
In a time where many celebrities share every detail online, Brenda and Ronnie have done the opposite. They never sought reality shows, interviews about their marriage, or flashy attention.
Instead, they’ve focused on their values—faith, love, and family. Their home in Nashville remains their safe haven, and their daughters were raised with those same grounded beliefs. That intentional privacy is one of the key reasons their marriage has lasted without cracks.
What Is Ronnie Shacklett’s Net Worth?
While Ronnie never made headlines for a flashy career, he has done well for himself. His net worth is estimated to be between $2 million and $5 million. This is likely a mix of smart business decisions and the shared financial success with Brenda Lee.
Brenda’s music continues to bring in royalties, especially her Christmas hit that plays on repeat every holiday season. Together, they’ve built a comfortable and stable life—without chasing material excess or media buzz.
Why Does Their Love Story Still Matter Today?
Ronnie Shacklett and Brenda Lee remind us that true love doesn’t need the spotlight. Their marriage shows that lasting relationships are built on trust, sacrifice, and quiet support—not just romance and roses.
In a world obsessed with likes and headlines, their bond offers a rare kind of inspiration. They’ve shown what it means to stand by each other through everything—fame, family, and the ups and downs of life
