At 55, Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond Faces Heartbreak: A Farewell to Chuck Drummond

Ree Drummond, widely known as “The Pioneer Woman,” has shared devastating news with her fans: the passing of her father-in-law, Chuck Drummond, at the age of 79.

Chuck, affectionately called “Papa” by his grandchildren, died peacefully in his sleep on November 4, 2022, leaving behind a legacy of ranching, family values, and an unwavering cowboy spirit.

The Drummond family, renowned for their sprawling Oklahoma ranch and their close-knit bond, is grieving the loss of a man who was not only a patriarch but also the heart and soul of their family traditions.

In a heartfelt tribute on her blog, Ree revealed the depth of Chuck’s influence on her life and career.

Chuck was not just her father-in-law; he was a pillar of support, a cheerleader for her endeavors, and a man whose generosity and warmth touched everyone he met.

Ree wrote about his gruff exterior, which often masked a deeply open and loving heart.

Whether he was handing out her cookbooks to strangers or watching her segments on QVC, Chuck always found ways to champion Ree’s success and celebrate her achievements.

Chuck’s life revolved around his family and the ranch he dedicated his life to managing.

As co-owner of Drummond Land and Cattle Co., Chuck worked alongside his sons, Ladd and Tim, to uphold the family’s ranching heritage.

The Drummonds are one of the largest landowning families in the United States, with over 400,000 acres in Pawhuska, Oklahoma.

Chuck’s passion for the land was evident in his daily life, and he instilled a deep respect for hard work in his children and grandchildren.

Ree fondly recalled how Chuck would assign tasks to the grandkids whenever they claimed to be bored, ensuring they learned the value of effort and perseverance.

The funeral procession for Chuck was a poignant and fitting tribute to his cowboy spirit.

Cowboys on horseback led the hearse across the family’s vast ranch, a symbolic gesture that reflected Chuck’s lifelong connection to ranching and the American Western traditions he cherished.

Ree’s daughters, Alex and Paige, shared touching memories of their grandfather on social media, giving fans a glimpse into the emotional farewell.

Alex posted a video of the funeral procession and expressed gratitude for the 25 years of memories she had with her grandfather.

Paige recalled a conversation with Chuck, where he told her, “If you’re ever out working on the ranch on a hot summer day and you feel a cool breeze passing by, just know that it’s me—and then get back to work.”

Chuck’s passing comes as another chapter in the Drummond family’s history of resilience in the face of loss.

Ladd and Tim had previously experienced the tragic deaths of their older brother Todd in a car accident and their mother Nan, who passed away in 2018 after battling cancer.

Ree reflected on the possibility of Nan and Chuck’s souls being reunited in the afterlife, expressing hope that they are celebrating together.

Despite the sorrow, the Drummonds have found strength in their shared values and the legacy of love and hard work that Chuck left behind.

Ree’s tribute to Chuck also highlighted his role as a grandfather.

He was a man who delighted in spending time with his grandchildren, teaching them about ranch life and sharing his wisdom.

His love for his family was evident in every interaction, from his booming voice that commanded attention to the quiet moments of advice and encouragement.

Ree described Chuck as “the best grandfather anyone could ask for,” a sentiment echoed by Alex and Paige in their heartfelt posts.

Beyond his contributions to the family, Chuck had a significant impact on the community and the Drummond brand.

His appearances on The Pioneer Woman episodes showcased his authenticity and charm, endearing him to fans of the show.

At the Drummond family’s Mercantile store in Pawhuska, Chuck would greet visitors with warmth and genuine interest, embodying the values of hospitality and kindness that are central to the family’s ethos.

Ree credited Chuck with helping her build her career, noting how he supported her in countless ways, from promoting her cookbooks to encouraging her storytelling.

As the Drummond family navigates this period of grief, they are united by the memories and values that Chuck instilled in them.

Ree’s blog post captures the essence of a man who lived life to the fullest, loved deeply, and left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.

She expressed gratitude for the privilege of knowing Chuck and for the legacy he leaves behind, writing, “We adore you, Papa. Thank you for letting us be part of your happy life.”

The cowboy spirit that Chuck embodied continues to live on in the Drummond family.

His warmth, humor, and determination are reflected in the lives of his children and grandchildren, who carry forward the traditions and values he cherished.

Paige’s recollection of Chuck’s remark about the cool breeze serves as a poignant reminder of his enduring presence in their lives.

Each gust of wind on the ranch will be a symbol of the man who dedicated his life to his family, his land, and the joys of ranching.

Chuck Drummond’s legacy is not only preserved in the memories of his loved ones but also in the countless fans of The Pioneer Woman who have been inspired by his life.

Ree’s recipes, stories, and insights into ranch life continue to honor Chuck’s influence, ensuring that his spirit remains a guiding force for the Drummond family and their community.

As the Drummonds move forward, they do so with the knowledge that Chuck’s values of hard work, devotion, and love will always be a part of their lives.

His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy is a testament to the things that matter most: family, resilience, and an unwavering connection to the land.