Willie Nelson stands as an enduring icon in the country music scene, remarkably continuing to perform at the age of 92 while maintaining a deep connection with his fans after more than seventy years of captivating audiences. Originating from Texas, he rose to fame with timeless hits like “On the Road Again,” “To All the Girls I’ve Loved Before,” and “Pancho and Lefty.” His influence stretches far beyond his musical achievements; he has long championed causes such as farmers’ rights, marijuana legalization, and LGBTQ+ equality, making him a significant figure in social advocacy.
The life I love is makin’ music with my friends… Thanks for having us, Phoenix!
: Aubrey Wise pic.twitter.com/oQLI7BvYvb— Willie Nelson (@WillieNelson) May 15, 2025
Willie’s personal life has been as vibrant and complex as his musical career. He has experienced marriage four times, first to Martha Matthews, followed by Shirley Collie, Connie Koepke, and currently, Annie D’Angelo. Reflecting on his relationships, he candidly stated in an interview with Parade in 2010, “I’m not easy to live with.” He acknowledged the challenges of his personality, admitting that his long-standing independence makes him resistant to suggestions from others.
To understand the dynamics of Willie’s marriages, we’ll delve into his relationships with his former wives and the enduring bond he shares with Annie, highlighting the significant moments in their lives together.
Discovering Willie Nelson’s First Marriage: Martha Matthews
At just 19 years old, after being discharged from the Air Force due to back injuries, Willie Nelson met Martha Matthews, who was only 16 at the time, as noted by Sunset Blvd Records. Their union resulted in the birth of three children: Lana, Susie, and Willie Nelson Jr.. However, their household was marked by turmoil, as the young couple often engaged in heavy drinking and frequent arguments. According to Parade, their relationship escalated to violence, with reports suggesting Martha once tied Willie in a blanket and struck him with a broomstick. While Martha disputes this account, claiming she used a jump rope instead, the volatile nature of their marriage was undeniable.
The couple ultimately parted ways in 1962, and tragically, Martha passed away in 1989 at the age of 53, as reported by the Orlando Sentinel.
Shirley Collie: Willie Nelson’s Second Wife and Their Musical Journey
In 1963, Willie married Shirley Collie, marking his second marriage. Shirley was an accomplished rockabilly singer, yodeler, guitarist, and songwriter, and the couple frequently toured together, making music a significant part of their relationship. However, their marriage faced challenges when Shirley discovered a hospital bill indicating that Willie had fathered a child with another woman, Connie Koepke. In his memoir, “Me and Sister Bobbie: True Tales of the Family Band,” Willie recounted the moment he had to confess to Shirley about his daughter, Paula Carlene, stating, “Shirley wanted to know who in the hell was Connie Nelson.” Their marriage ended in divorce in 1971.
Shirley passed away in 2010 at the age of 78, leaving behind a complex legacy intertwined with Willie’s musical journey.
Connie Koepke: A Marriage Marked by Love and Adversity
In the same year he divorced Shirley, Willie tied the knot with Connie Koepke. Their union welcomed another daughter, Amy, two years later. Over their 16-year marriage, Willie returned to his roots in Texas, feeling a strong need to reconnect with his fanbase. He shared with Parade, “I really felt like I needed to be in Texas playing to the people that were and still are my base.” However, the relationship could not withstand Willie’s infidelities, and they divorced in 1988. He reflected on this period in his memoir, acknowledging, “I messed up another marriage. My wandering ways were too much for any woman to put up with.”
Willie Nelson’s Enduring Love Story with Annie D’Angelo
In 1986, while filming Stagecoach, Willie encountered makeup artist Annie D’Angelo. He described his feelings in his memoir, stating, “In the mid-eighties I fell head over heels in love with Ann Marie D’Angelo, called Annie. Never had met a woman like her before.” Their bond solidified when they married in 1991, and Annie quickly emerged as a stabilizing and supportive force in Willie’s life, providing the emotional grounding he needed.
Reflecting on his relationship with Annie, Willie noted, “There was friction with my other wives. But it seems like Annie and I did OK with each other. It takes a special person to live with me.” After more than three decades together, this couple continues to thrive in their marriage, showcasing a profound connection that withstands the test of time.
