Scotty McCreery Loses Both Grandmothers in Heartbreaking Day

GARNER, N.C. — Country music star Scotty McCreery is mourning the loss of both of his grandmothers, who passed away on the same day. McCreery shared the news in a heartfelt Facebook post on July 10.

In his post, the 31-year-old Garner native expressed his shock and heartbreak. He wrote, “My heart is absolutely broken. Yesterday, both my Grandma Janet and my Grandma Paquita passed away. I think I am still in a bit of shock as I type this, but I’m choosing to remember the great memories we all made with both of them.”

Grandmothers Janet Hunter Cooke, 85, and Paquita McCreery, 93, both died on July 9. Janet passed away at WakeMed hospital from complications of norovirus and flu, which led to severe dehydration and pneumonia. Paquita followed later that day after suffering from declining health issues.

McCreery reflected on the cherished memories he created with both women, mentioning summers spent at their favorite spots like the Outer Banks and a family farm in Elizabeth City with Grandma Janet. He also recalled special times with Grandma Paquita, including swimming in her backyard pool in Pinehurst and exploring Puerto Rico during family vacations.

“Both of them truly taught me what love is all about. I will miss them dearly. If y’all could keep my family in your prayers, I’d appreciate it,” he wrote.

Scotty’s parents, Judy Cooke and Mike McCreery, also shared their grief on social media. Mike described his mother Paquita’s full life and the memories he cherishes, while Judy noted the difficulty in losing her mother shortly after Paquita’s passing.

As McCreery navigates this painful time, he continues to celebrate his music career, having released his latest album, “Rise & Fall,” in 2024.

Funeral arrangements for both grandmothers have not yet been announced.