While his music career made him a household name, Pat Boone’s later years reveal a life filled with devotion, faith, and unexpected ventures. Here’s how he’s finding purpose after his beloved wife’s passing.
Pat Boone, born on June 1, 1934, in Jacksonville, Florida, rose to fame as a singer and television personality known for his wholesome image and charming pop hits in the 1950s.
His career began early, sparked by winning a local talent contest that led to appearances on television variety shows like “Ted Mack,” “Arthur Godfrey Talent Scouts,” and “Original Amateur Hour.”
American actor and singer Pat Boone, circa 1960 | Source: Getty Images
By 1955, Pat had landed his first major record, “Two Hearts, Two Kisses,” marking the start of his successful partnership with Dot Records.
Later that year, his cover of Fats Domino’s “Ain’t That a Shame” became a massive hit, paving the way for more popular renditions of songs originally recorded by renowned African American artists, including Little Richard’s “Long Tall Sally” and “Tutti Frutti.”
American actor and singer Pat Boone records a song, circa 1957 | Source: Getty Images
Beyond his music, Pat graduated from Columbia University in 1958, earning a degree in speech and English. His cap-and-gown-clad appearance on the cover of “TV Guide” that same year cemented his image as a wholesome, clean-cut star.
After that, he hosted his own weekly variety show, “The Pat Boone–Chevy Showroom,” from 1957 to 1960. During this time, he also ventured into acting, appearing in films like “April Love” (1957) and “Journey to the Center of the Earth” (1959).
Pat Boone kisses Shirley Jones in a scene from the film “April Love,” circa 1957 | Source: Getty Images
While Pat’s popularity among young audiences faded with the rise of the British Invasion in the early 1960s, his career continued to evolve. He ventured into gospel music in the 1970s with albums such as “Pat Boone Sings the New Songs of the Jesus People” (1972) and “The Pat Boone Gospel Collection” (1978).
Later, in an unexpected twist, he surprised fans with a heavy metal album, “In a Metal Mood: No More Mr. Nice Guy” in 1997, appearing alongside rocker Alice Cooper and drawing both amusement and shock from his audience.
An unnamed girl shrieks approval as rock and roll singer Pat Boone belts out a song during a Chicago youth rally, circa April 1956 | Source: Getty Images
Pat continued to adapt and expand his artistic portfolio, launching his own record label, “The Gold Label,” in the early 2000s.
Through this platform, he produced patriotic and devotional works, including “American Glory” (2002) and “Legacy” (2014), as well as collaborations with artists across genres. His career has spanned decades, marked by versatility and a steadfast dedication to his craft.
American singer and actor Pat Boone, circa 1955 | Source: Getty Images
Pat Boone’s Magnificent Love Story
As Pat’s career flourished, his personal life was equally captivating, marked by a profound love story with his wife, Shirley Boone. Pat and Shirley’s romance began when they were both just 16.
Recalling their early connection, Pat shared, “We were very much in love.” By the time they turned 19, Shirley’s family planned a move that would take her away, leading Pat to realize he couldn’t let her go.
He approached Shirley’s father, country music icon Red Foley, to ask for her hand in marriage. In a poignant exchange, Red tearfully asked Pat one thing, “Will you take care of my girl?”
Pat assured him he would, and the couple soon eloped in November 1953. They settled in Teaneck, New Jersey, where they embraced the joys of family life, raising four daughters within their first five years of marriage.
The couple’s move to Beverly Hills eventually became a long-term chapter, where they resided for over 50 years. Together, they witnessed their family expand, celebrating the lives of their four daughters, 16 grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren.
Shirley dedicated herself to creating a warm and joyful home, as Pat fondly recalled. Her life also included multiple roles, not only as a wife and mother but as a best-selling author, recording artist, television host, and dedicated humanitarian.
Shirley Boone appearing on the ABC TV special “Pat Boone and Family Easter Special,” circa 1979 | Source: Getty Images
Beyond her family contributions, Shirley was highly regarded for her impact in Christian ministry, establishing a billion-dollar Christian organization. Her and Pat’s shared faith was a guiding strength throughout their marriage, helping them overcome challenges and sustain their lifelong commitment.
Pat acknowledged the importance of their beliefs in holding them together, saying, “We didn’t have the perfect marriage, but it helps to marry a magnificent woman.” He added that faith and family were central, allowing them to persevere during difficult times and grow stronger as a couple.
Gone But Not Forgotten
This deep-rooted bond lasted 65 years until Shirley’s passing on January 11, 2019. At age 84, she died peacefully at home in Beverly Hills, surrounded by Pat and their daughters, who sang hymns by her side.
Reflecting on his loss, Pat described his parting from Shirley with heartfelt faith, saying, “We lived a wonderful, blessed life together for 65 years. I’ve parted with my better half for a little while… but we don’t die, we just move on to another place, and today was moving day.”
