Scotty McCreery, the celebrated American Idol winner and chart-topping country artist, is enduring a heartbreaking chapter in his life. On July 9, 2025,

Scotty McCreery, the celebrated American Idol winner and chart-topping country artist, is enduring a heartbreaking chapter in his life. On July 9, 2025, he experienced the unimaginable loss of both his grandmothers—Janet Hunter Cooke and Paquita McCreery—within hours of each other. Here’s a detailed look into this emotional event, the impact on Scotty and his family, and the public’s response.

❤️ The Day That Changed Everything

• Both grandmothers passed away on Wednesday, July 9, 2025:

  • Janet Hunter Cooke, aged 85, Scotty’s maternal grandmother.

  • Paquita McCreery, aged 93, his paternal grandmother.

• In a heartfelt Instagram post on July 10, Scotty shared a wedding photo with Gabi and their grandmothers, writing:

  “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.

🕯️ A Life Rich in Memories

Scotty reflected warmly on the special moments with each grandmother:

• With Grandma Janet:

  • Farm life visits in Elizabeth City.

  • Beach trips to the Outer Banks.

• With Grandma Paquita:

  • Poolside gatherings in Pinehurst.

  • Family vacations to Puerto Rico.

He emphasized their profound influence: “Both of them truly taught me what love is all about.”

🎤 Performing Through Pain

Despite the grief, Scotty continued performing:

• On July 10, he appeared at a country concert in Fort Loramie, Ohio.

• He delivered an emotional rendition of “Five More Minutes”, a song he co-wrote after losing his grandfather in 2015, pleading for “just a pause button”—a tribute especially resonant in his current sorrow.

• Audience members described the performance as “heartbreaking and beautiful,” with Scotty holding back tears while looking heavenward.

🏡 Family Reflections & Support

Scotty’s parents also expressed their grief and gratitude:

• His father, Mike McCreery, posted that Paquita died around 4 p.m. and Janet earlier around 1 p.m., praising their full lives and cherished memories.

• His mother, Judy Cooke, described Janet’s death following illness complications and noted the staggering emotional weight of losing Paquita shortly after.

The McCreery–Cooke family is receiving an outpouring of support from fans and fellow artists, with many offering prayers and encouraging them during this devastating time.

🌅 Holding Onto Love & Legacy

Scotty’s wife Gabi, along with their young son Merrick (age 2), and their unborn child, will bear this collective grief.

Scotty conveyed his heartfelt request: “If y’all could keep my family in your prayers I’d appreciate it.”

As he continues to channel his emotions through music and family, his journey through sorrow will no doubt resonate deeply with those who’ve experienced loss.

🎶 Why This Is Profound

• Emotional resonance: Losing both grandmothers in a single day is extremely rare and profoundly affecting.

• Musical tribute: His performance of “Five More Minutes,” a song already linked to mourning, became an even more poignant elegy.

• Family values: Scotty’s reflections highlight the deep bonds of family, memory, and resilience.

💬 In Scotty’s Own Words

“My heart is absolutely broken… I’m choosing to remember the great memories we all made with both of them.”

🕊️ Closing Thoughts

Scotty McCreery’s dual loss is a powerful reminder of how love and grief often intertwine. Through music, memories, and the support of his close-knit family, he continues to honor the legacy of Janet and Paquita. In this sorrowful period, the country music community and fans stand with him and his loved ones, offering comfort, empathy, and solidarity.