Who Is Tennessee Ernie Ford? Age, Biography and Wiki
Tennessee Ernie Ford was born on February 13, 1919, and passed away on October 17, 1991. As of 2025, he would have been 106 years old. An iconic American singer and television personality, Ford became famous for his rich baritone voice and a string of hits in the 1950s and 60s. Known for popular songs like "Sixteen Tons," Ford's music blended country, gospel, and pop, earning him a prominent spot in American music history. His charm and down-to-earth persona made him a beloved figure on television with shows like "The Tennessee Ernie Ford Show."
| Occupation | Country Singer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 13, 1919 |
| Age | 72 Years |
| Birth Place | Bristol, Tennessee, US |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 17 October, 1991 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
Tennessee Ernie Ford's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific details regarding Tennessee Ernie Ford's height and weight throughout his life may vary, he was approximately 6 feet tall (183 cm) and had a robust physique. In his prime, he maintained a healthy weight suited to his stature, contributing to his stage presence and performance style.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Tennessee Ernie Ford married Betty Ellen Burk in 1943, with whom he had four children: Karen, Jeff, and twins David and Lisa. Their enduring relationship has often been highlighted as a testament to Ford's commitment to family. While there were no notable romantic relationships or a boyfriend/girlfriend scenario apart from his marriage, Ford’s family life was characterized by strong bonds and support through his career.
Out of the public eye, Ford and wife Betty contended with serious alcohol problems; Betty had the problem since the 1950s, as well as emotional issues that complicated both their lives and the lives of their sons. Though his drinking began to worsen in the 1960s, he worked continuously, seemingly unaffected by his heavy intake of whiskey.
By the 1970s, however, it had begun to take an increasing toll on his health, appearance and ability to sing, though his problems were not known publicly.
After Betty took her own life in 1989 because of prescription drug abuse, Ernie's liver problems, diagnosed years earlier, became more apparent, but he refused to reduce his drinking despite repeated doctors' warnings.
His last interview was taped on September 23, 1991, by his long-time friend Dinah Shore for her TV show, and was later aired on December 4 that year.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 1991, Tennessee Ernie Ford's estimated net worth was around $10 million, a considerable sum that reflected his successful career in both music and television. Given his consistent work and numerous endorsements, his salary during his peak years was substantial. By 2025, had he been alive, it is likely his estate would have generated additional income through ongoing royalties from his timeless music and continued popularity in popular culture.
Career, Business and Investments
Ford's career began in radio during the late 1930s and gained substantial fame during the television era. His music spanned across multiple genres, leading to significant commercial success with record sales that often topped charts. Beyond singing, Ford hosted "The Tennessee Ernie Ford Show," which ran from 1956 to 1961, evolving him from a musical artist into a prominent TV personality. He also made guest appearances on various shows and participated in commercials, further solidifying his status as a household name. Investments in music publishing and television productions also contributed to his wealth, establishing a legacy that endures today in the form of re-releases and tribute shows.
Ford began wandering around Bristol, Tennessee in his high school years, taking an interest in radio and began his radio career as an announcer at WOPI in 1937, being paid 10 dollars a week. In 1938, the young bass-baritone left the station and went to study classical music at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music in Ohio.
He returned for the announcing job in 1939 and did it from 1939 to 1941 in stations from Atlanta, GA to Knoxville, TN. A first lieutenant, he served in the United States Army Air Corps in World War II as the bombardier on a B-29 Superfortress, but the war ended before he was to be sent to Japan.
He was also a bombing instructor at George Air Force Base, in Victorville, California.
Social Network
Though Tennessee Ernie Ford was not present in today’s social media landscape, his influence continues to shine through various online platforms where fans celebrate his work. Social media pages and fan groups dedicated to his music and television career serve as avenues for new generations to discover his legacy, stacking followers with every passing year as more people fall in love with his art.
Although he left his own TV show, he went on other shows like Hee Haw in the 1970s, The Dolly Show and on Barbara Mandrell and the Mandrell Sisters in the early 1980s.
Education
Ford graduated from high school in Walden, Tennessee, before enrolling at the University of North Texas, where he studied music. His education played a crucial role in shaping his musical talents and understanding of the entertainment industry, equipping him to take on various platforms successfully throughout his career.
In conclusion, Tennessee Ernie Ford's life encapsulates the essence of American entertainment, with his legacy thriving through enduring music and a devoted fan base. As we reflect on his contributions in 2025, Ford's influence remains a significant part of music and television history.
Ford eventually ended his KXLA morning show and in the early 1950s, moved on from Hometown Jamboree. He took over from bandleader Kay Kyser as host of the TV version of NBC quiz show College of Musical Knowledge when it returned briefly in 1954 after a four-year hiatus.
He became a household name in the U.S., largely as a result of his portrayal of "Cousin Ernie" in the I Love Lucy episodes "Tennessee Ernie Visits", "Tennessee Ernie Hangs On" (both 1954) and "Tennessee Bound" (1955).
In 1955, Ford recorded "The Ballad of Davy Crockett" (which reached number 4 on the country music chart) with "Farewell to the Mountains" on the B-side.
