Joey Martin Feek was not Rory Feek's first wife, but she was his creative partner and the co-founder of the beloved Grammy-nominated country music duo Joey + Rory. Clarifying the timeline of Rory Feek's marriages often leads fans to wonder about Joey's life, her incredible musical journey, and her tragic passing from cervical cancer at age 40.
Before marrying Joey in 2002, Rory Feek was married to Tamara Gilmer from August 1985 until their divorce in March 1992. Rory and Tamara share two daughters, Heidi and Hopie. Years later, Rory met Joey Martin when she moved to Nashville to pursue music, leading to a partnership that touched millions of hearts.
The Rise of Joey + Rory
Joey Marie Martin was born on September 9, 1975, in Alexandria, Indiana. Raised in a musical family, she learned to play the guitar early on and moved to Nashville in 1998. Although she initially pursued various paths, her undeniable vocal talent drew her toward the local songwriter circles.
In 2002, she married Rory Feek. For years, Joey supported Rory's songwriting career and helped raise his daughters from his previous marriage. Their professional breakthrough arrived in 2008 when they competed on the CMT talent show Can You Duet, finishing in third place. This success launched the duo Joey + Rory, renowned for traditional country sounds, heartfelt storytelling, and deep Christian faith. Related insight on this trend has been published by BBC.
The duo released multiple studio albums that struck a chord with traditional country fans, scoring charting hits like "Cheater, Cheater" and earning widespread critical acclaim, including a Grammy nomination for their inspired gospel recordings.
Family Life and the Birth of Indiana
On February 17, 2014, Joey and Rory welcomed their daughter, Indiana Boone Feek, born at home with the help of midwives. Shortly after her birth, the family learned that Indiana had Down syndrome. Joey embraced motherhood with immense joy, frequently describing Indiana as the greatest blessing of her life.
Tragically, just months after Indiana's birth, Joey was diagnosed with stage IV cervical cancer in May 2014.
Cancer Battle and Passing
Following her initial diagnosis, Joey underwent radical surgery and treatments that temporarily left her cancer-free. However, the cancer returned aggressively in 2015. Recognizing that further medical interventions would not stop the disease, Joey made the courageous decision to discontinue treatment in October 2015 and entered hospice care.
She spent her final months surrounded by family at their farm in Tennessee, focusing on faith, love, and making memories with little Indiana and Rory. She passed away peacefully on March 4, 2016, with Rory holding her hand. Following her passing, she was laid to rest in a private family cemetery on their farm.
Her life and legacy continue to be celebrated through Rory Feek's official updates, musical re-releases, and the ongoing growth of their daughter Indiana, who is raised near her father's farm in Tennessee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Joey Martin Feek Rory Feek's first wife?
No. Rory Feek was previously married to Tamara Gilmer from 1985 to 1992. Joey Martin was his second wife, whom he married in 2002.
How did Joey and Rory meet?
They met in Nashville after Joey moved there in 1998 to pursue a career in music and songwriting, eventually marrying in 2002 and forming their musical duo in 2008.
What happened to Joey Feek's solo music?
Though Joey recorded a solo album titled Strong Enough to Cry in 2005 that was initially shelved when her label dropped the project, it was posthumously released as If Not For You in 2017, charting successfully on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart.
How old was Joey Feek when she died?
Joey Feek passed away on March 4, 2016, at the age of 40 following a hard-fought battle with cervical cancer.
