Toby Keith Receives Posthumous Honorary Degree From University of Oklahoma

Over the weekend, the late Toby Keith was bestowed with a hometown honor: The University of Oklahoma presented the musician with a posthumous honorary degree. His daughter, Krystal Keith, accepted the degree on his behalf.

Keith died in February at the age of 62 following a diagnosis of stomach cancer in 2021. It was around two years after his diagnosis that the country titan learned of the University of Oklahoma’s plans to present him with an honorary degree.

“Toby learned he would be receiving an honorary degree from @uofoklahoma last fall,” a post shared to Keith’s official Instagram account on Sunday read. “And yesterday, @krystalkeith accepted it on his behalf at the commencement ceremony. Congratulations to all of the OU graduates!”

In a separate post on X (formerly Twitter), University of Oklahoma President Joseph Harroz Jr. shared: “So incredibly grateful to Tricia and Krystal Keith for joining us Saturday to celebrate the impact and legacy of @tobykeith with an honorary degree from @UofOklahoma. Miss you and each and every day, TK.”

Keith has deep roots with the University of Oklahoma. All three of his children attended the university, and the musician maintained a close rapport with Harroz Jr. In February, following news of Keith’s death, the university president shared a moving tribute highlighting his contributions to the community.

“Throughout his illustrious career, he remained rooted in his Oklahoma upbringing, choosing to live in the state that shaped him and giving back generously to his fellow Oklahomans,” he wrote. “His philanthropic efforts, from raising millions for children battling cancer to supporting tornado victims, exemplified his unwavering commitment to his roots and his compassion for others.”

Harroz Jr. added: “As a lifelong Sooner, Toby’s passion for the crimson and cream made him a cherished figure within Sooner Nation, where he proudly shared his love for the university and its community.”