Ernest Ray Lynn, affectionately known as Ernie, is the son of the legendary Loretta Lynn, an icon in the country music world, and her husband, Oliver “Doolittle” Lynn. Born on May 27, 1951, in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee, Ernie is the only surviving son of this famous couple. Though he grew up in the shadow of his mother’s massive fame, Ernie has carved out his own identity, contributing to country music while living a relatively private life today. In this article, we will take a deep dive into Ernie’s life, his family, his career, and more, to better understand his journey.
Profile Summary
| Personal Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ernest Ray Lynn |
| Nickname | Ernie |
| Date of Birth | May 27, 1951 |
| Place of Birth | Hurricane Mills, Tennessee, USA |
| Age | 72 (as of 2023) |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| Current Residency | Hurricane Mills, Tennessee, USA |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Wife | Crystal Lynn |
| Ex-Wife | Cindy Pelmons |
| Daughter | Tayla Lynn |
| Mother | Loretta Lynn |
| Father | Oliver “Doolittle” Lynn |
| Siblings | Betty Sue, Jack Benny, Cissy, Patsy, Peggy Lynn |
| Height | 5’8″ (173 cm) |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Net Worth | $3 million |
Early Life and Family Background
Ernest Ray Lynn was born on May 27, 1951, in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee, to country music legend Loretta Lynn and her husband, Oliver “Doolittle” Lynn. Growing up in a household filled with music, Ernie was surrounded by his mother’s rising career in country music. The Lynn family lived a rural life, and Ernie, along with his siblings, was raised with a deep appreciation for country living. Though details of his early education and personal life remain private, it’s clear that his upbringing was shaped by his parents’ influence, especially his mother’s musical legacy.
Ernie’s Age and Physical Appearance
Ernest Ray Lynn was born on May 27, 1951, which makes him 72 years old as of 2023. He falls under the zodiac sign Gemini. In terms of his physical appearance, Ernie stands at 5’8″, with blonde hair and blue eyes. Though he has lived most of his life in the public eye due to his famous mother, he has generally kept a low profile and has remained out of the spotlight, choosing instead to live a quiet life on the family ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee. His looks still hold traces of the youthful charm from his earlier years, though he has aged gracefully, just like many members of the Lynn family.
Ernest Ray Lynn’s Mother: Loretta Lynn
Loretta Lynn, born Loretta Webb on April 14, 1932, was one of the most influential and beloved figures in country music. Known as the “Queen of Country,” she began her career in the late 1950s and became famous for her powerful songwriting and emotional performances. She had six children, including Ernest Ray, and was married to Oliver “Doolittle” Lynn for over four decades. Loretta’s impact on the music industry was profound, and her influence helped shape the future of country music. She passed away on October 4, 2022, but her legacy lives on, not only through her music but also through her children, including Ernie, who continues to honor her work and memory.
Ernest Ray Lynn’s Father: Oliver “Doolittle” Lynn
Oliver “Doolittle” Lynn was a key figure in Loretta Lynn’s life and career. He was born on August 27, 1926, in Butcher Hollow, Kentucky. As Loretta’s husband and manager, Doolittle played a pivotal role in launching and guiding her career, helping her achieve legendary status in the country music world. Despite their turbulent relationship at times, Doolittle’s influence on Loretta’s success cannot be overstated. He passed away in 1996, but his presence still looms large in the history of country music. Doolittle is buried on the family ranch in Hurricane Mills, where his memory lives on alongside his wife’s.
Ernest Ray Lynn’s Siblings
Ernie was born into a large family with five siblings. His eldest sister, Betty Sue Lynn, was born on November 26, 1948, followed by his older brother Jack Benny, born on December 7, 1949. Ernie had three younger sisters: Cissy, born on April 7, 1952; and twins, Patsy and Peggy, born on August 6, 1964. Tragically, Ernie has faced heartbreaking losses. His sister Betty Sue passed away in 2013 at the age of 64, succumbing to emphysema, while his brother Jack Benny died in 1984, drowning in the Duck River at just 34 years old. These losses have shaped Ernie’s life, and he remains deeply connected to the memory of his late siblings.
Ernest Ray Lynn’s Marriages and Family Life
Ernie has been married twice in his life. His first marriage was to Cindy Pelmons, with whom he had a daughter, Tayla Lynn. Tragically, Cindy passed away in July 2018. The day before her death, Ernie had attended a performance by his mother, Loretta, at her ranch in Tennessee. After Cindy’s passing, Ernie found love again with Crystal Lynn. The two are married and have kept their relationship largely private, choosing to live a peaceful life away from the spotlight. They share a strong bond and have maintained their commitment to each other by renewing their vows every year on their anniversary, which is celebrated on September 22. Ernie’s family life has been marked by deep love and personal loss, and his second marriage brings him much happiness and stability.
Ernest Ray Lynn’s Daughter: Tayla Lynn
Tayla Lynn, Ernie’s only daughter, has followed in the footsteps of her legendary family. Born to Ernie and his first wife, Cindy, Tayla was introduced to the world of country music at a young age, growing up alongside her famous grandmother, Loretta Lynn. Tayla’s musical journey began when she became a member of the country music group Stealing Angels. Later, she ventured into a solo career, continuing to carry the family’s musical torch. In 2018, Tayla had the honor of headlining a tribute concert for her grandmother, Loretta, cementing her own place in country music. Tayla has a strong presence in the music world, and her work is a reflection of the musical lineage that runs deep in the Lynn family.
Ernest Ray Lynn’s Career
Although Ernie did not reach the same level of fame as his mother, his career in music has been a steady and significant part of his life. Growing up in a family where music was ever-present, it was only natural that Ernie would eventually find his own path in the music world. He occasionally performed alongside his mother during her career, and while he did not pursue a full-fledged career in the public eye, he still contributed to the country music scene. Today, Ernie shares his music through his YouTube channel, Country Rebel, where he engages with fans and continues his musical passion. Ernie’s career is a testament to his love for country music and his deep respect for the legacy of his family.
Ernest Ray Lynn’s Net Worth
Ernie has amassed a net worth of around $3 million throughout his career. While he may not have the same vast fortune as his mother, Loretta Lynn, who had a net worth of $65 million at the time of her passing, Ernie’s wealth is still substantial. A significant portion of his net worth comes from his contributions to country music, as well as from the wealth of his family, who own one of the largest ranches in the U.S. Loretta Lynn’s estate and legacy continue to provide financial security for her family, and Ernie has benefited from this as well. The Lynn family’s financial success is a reflection of their long-lasting impact on the country music industry.
Ernest Ray Lynn’s Current Life and Where He Lives
Ernie’s life today is far quieter than the whirlwind of fame that once surrounded his mother. He currently resides in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee, at Loretta Lynn’s ranch. This rural haven is not just a place of residence but also a symbol of the Lynn family’s deep roots in country living. Ernie, along with his wife Crystal, lives a peaceful life, focusing on farming and caring for the horses on the ranch. Their life is simple but fulfilling, as they enjoy the serenity of the countryside away from the public eye. Despite the quiet life, Ernie’s connection to his family’s history and his continued passion for country music keep him tied to the legacy of his famous parents.
Conclusion
Ernest Ray Lynn may not have reached the same level of fame as his legendary mother, Loretta Lynn, but his life and legacy are just as significant in the world of country music. From his early years growing up in a musically gifted family to his own contributions to the music world, Ernie has carved out a path that reflects the strength and resilience of the Lynn family. Though he has faced personal loss, including the passing of his siblings and his first wife, Ernie’s life today remains centered on love, family, and the quiet joys of country living. Through his daughter, Tayla, the Lynn legacy in music continues to thrive, ensuring that the name Lynn will forever be tied to the rich history of country music.
FAQs About Ernest Ray Lynn
Who is Ernest Ray Lynn?
Ernest Ray Lynn, known as Ernie, is the son of country music legend Loretta Lynn and her husband, Oliver “Doolittle” Lynn. He is a country music singer and the only surviving son of Loretta Lynn.
How old is Ernest Ray Lynn?
Ernest Ray Lynn was born on May 27, 1951, which makes him 72 years old as of 2023.
What is Ernest Ray Lynn’s net worth?
Ernest Ray Lynn has an estimated net worth of $3 million, which comes from his music career and his family’s legacy.
Who are Ernest Ray Lynn’s parents?
Ernest’s mother is Loretta Lynn, a legendary country music singer, and his father was Oliver “Doolittle” Lynn, Loretta’s husband and manager.
Does Ernest Ray Lynn have any siblings?
Yes, Ernest has five siblings: Betty Sue, Jack Benny, Cissy, and twins Patsy and Peggy Lynn. Tragically, Betty Sue and Jack Benny have passed away.
Is Ernest Ray Lynn married?
Yes, Ernest Ray Lynn is married to Crystal Lynn, with whom he shares a quiet life on the family ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee.
What is Ernest Ray Lynn’s career?
Ernest Ray Lynn has worked in country music, performing both solo and occasionally with his famous mother. He continues to share his music through his YouTube channel, Country Rebel.
