As a native Oklahoman, Toby Keith was a a lifelong fan of The University of Oklahoma. OU and its fans loved him right back in return.

Toby passed away on Monday, February 5 at the age of 62. The country music icon had been battling stomach cancer since 2021.

OU’s president, Joseph Harroz Jr., released a statement about Toby’s death. He said:

“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. His philanthropic efforts, from raising millions for children battling cancer to supporting tornado victims, exemplified his unwavering commitment to his roots and compassion for others. 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.”

The University of Oklahoma / Facebook

Toby’s Daughter, Krystal Keith, Explains Why He Loved OU So Much

After Toby passed away, his daughter, Krystal, explained his love for OU. She said it all started when he was a child.

“My dad started selling Cokes at 12 or 13 yrs old in the stadium so he could see the games live,” Krystal said. “We have traveled as a family with the teams to bowl games and championships as long as I can remember. Planning weddings, vacations and big life events around team schedules.“

When it came time for Krystal and her siblings to go to college, Toby made it clear “where he was willing to spend his money” for their education. Krystal, her sister Shelley, and her brother Stelen all attended OU.

“When I was choosing, he told me ‘you can go anywhere in the world you want to go, as long as it’s in Norman, OK and has division 1 football,’” Krystal recalled.

Stelen earned scholarships at another college, which he attended for a short while. But he eventually enrolled at OU, and Krystal said Toby “was happy to forego scholarships in lieu of paying for a Sooner education.”

Krystal ended her post by saying, “He bled crimson and it’s genetic.”

Head below to read Krystal’s full post about Toby Keith’s love for the University of Oklahoma.