The Unbreakable Bond: Inside Brenda Lee’s 61-Year Marriage To Ronnie Shacklett

For fans of "Little Miss Dynamite," the answer to the question "Is Brenda Lee still married?" is a resounding and inspiring yes. As of today, December 12, 2025, the legendary rockabilly and pop singer remains happily married to her husband, Ronnie Shacklett, a relationship that has endured for an incredible 61 years, making it one of the longest and most stable marriages in the entertainment industry. This enduring partnership, which began when Lee was just 17, is a testament to commitment and a rare feat in the often-turbulent world of celebrity life, proving that true love can indeed last a lifetime. The longevity of their union is a source of great fascination for her millions of fans, especially following her massive resurgence in the charts with the timeless hit "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" in late 2024 and early 2025. While her professional life has seen her transition from a fiery rockabilly teen to a celebrated Country Music Hall of Famer, her personal life with Ronnie Shacklett has provided a steady anchor, a fact she often credits for her enduring success and happiness. The secret to their decades-long bond is simpler and more profound than many might expect.

Brenda Lee: The Definitive Biography and Marital Timeline

Brenda Lee, born Brenda Mae Tarpley, is one of the most successful American female vocalists of all time, known for her powerful voice that earned her the nickname "Little Miss Dynamite." Her career is a fascinating journey through multiple genres, but her personal life has remained remarkably consistent since the early 1960s.

Brenda Lee's Profile and Biography

• Full Name: Brenda Mae Tarpley
• Nickname: Little Miss Dynamite
• Date of Birth: December 11, 1944
• Age (as of Dec 2025): 81
• Place of Birth: Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
• Genres: Rockabilly, Pop, Country, Christmas Music
• Major Labels: Decca Records, MCA Records
• Inductions: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2002), Country Music Hall of Fame (1997), Rockabilly Hall of Fame
• Spouse: Ronnie Shacklett (m. 1963)
• Children: 2 Daughters (Julie and Jolie Shacklett)

The Love Story: Meeting Ronnie Shacklett

Brenda Lee met her future husband, Ronnie Shacklett, in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1962. She was just 17 years old at the time and was already a major star, having signed with Decca Records before her 12th birthday. The meeting took place at the Nashville Fairgrounds Coliseum, where she was watching a Jackie Wilson show. Their connection was immediate and profound. Despite her whirlwind career, which often took her around the world, the couple quickly became inseparable. They dated for a short period before deciding to marry. Lee and Shacklett tied the knot in a small ceremony in 1963. At the time, she was still a minor, and her mother had to sign the papers to allow the marriage. The decision to marry so young was a bold one for a global superstar, but it proved to be the foundation of a rock-solid partnership.

The Secret to 61 Years of Marriage: Why Brenda Lee and Ronnie Shacklett Last

In an industry littered with short-lived celebrity romances, the 61-year marriage between Brenda Lee and Ronnie Shacklett stands out as a beacon of enduring love. When asked about the secret to their longevity, Brenda Lee has offered simple yet deeply relatable wisdom.

A Foundation of Friendship and Humor

One of the key elements Lee often cites is the deep friendship that underlies their romantic relationship. She has described their bond as one where they genuinely enjoy each other's company, sharing a great sense of humor and a mutual respect for their individual lives. “We just like each other,” she once stated, emphasizing that their relationship is built on a foundation of mutual support and laughter. This simple acknowledgment of friendship is a powerful LSI keyword and a core principle for any long-term partnership.

Ronnie Shacklett’s Supportive Role

While Brenda Lee was the star, Ronnie Shacklett played a crucial, supportive role. He often managed her career and travel, providing a sense of stability and normalcy amidst the chaos of international stardom. He was the person who kept her grounded, especially during her peak years when hits like "I'm Sorry," "Sweet Nothin's," and "All Alone Am I" were dominating the charts globally. Shacklett's willingness to step into the role of a supportive partner and manager allowed Lee to focus on her artistic career without the added stress of managing all aspects of her business.

The Importance of Space and Commitment

Another secret to their success is their ability to give each other space while maintaining an unwavering commitment. In a world where Brenda Lee was constantly traveling—often performing in Europe, Asia, and across the United States—trust and dedication were paramount. Lee has jokingly mentioned that their secret involves "a lot of traveling," implying that the time spent apart made the time together even more valuable. However, the underlying truth is the commitment to their vows, a dedication that has seen them raise two daughters, Julie and Jolie Shacklett, and enjoy the pleasure of grandchildren.

Brenda Lee’s Recent Resurgence and Family Life in 2025

Even as she celebrated her 80th birthday in December 2024, Brenda Lee's career shows no signs of slowing down, a testament to her enduring talent and the support of her family. Her recent milestones have brought her marriage back into the public eye, highlighting the strength of her bond with Ronnie Shacklett.

The "Rockin'" Comeback

In late 2024, "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree," which was originally released in 1958, finally hit the *Billboard* Hot 100 number one spot. This historic achievement, 65 years after its release, made her the oldest artist to top the chart and the longest gap between a song's release and its chart-topping success. This massive comeback put her back in the spotlight, where she frequently mentioned her husband and family. The song's success, which continued into the beginning of the 2025 holiday season, solidified her legacy and introduced her to a new generation of listeners who are now discovering her incredible catalog of hits, including "Dynamite" and "Jambalaya."

A Celebrated Legacy and Future Honors

Brenda Lee's continued relevance is further evidenced by recent honors and media attention. In 2025, she is slated to receive further recognition for her contributions to music, showcasing a career that has spanned over six decades. A recent documentary detailing her life and career further cemented her status as a music pioneer who successfully navigated the rockabilly, pop, and country music landscapes. The stability provided by her marriage to Ronnie Shacklett has allowed her to enjoy these career highlights fully. Their two daughters, Julie and Jolie, and their grandchildren, remain a central focus of her life, representing the lasting legacy of their commitment. The Shacklett family unit is a powerful example of how a supportive personal life can fuel a monumental professional career. In conclusion, Brenda Lee and Ronnie Shacklett’s 61-year marriage is not just a footnote in her illustrious career; it is an essential part of her story. It is a quiet, powerful symbol of stability in a world of constant change, and a beautiful answer to the question of whether "Little Miss Dynamite" is still married—she is, and their love is still going strong.