Glen Campbell, the legendary country crooner known for hits like “Wichita Lineman” and “Rhinestone Cowboy,” lived a life as full and complex as his music. Behind the curtain of fame, Campbell was also the father of eight surviving children from four different marriages—each with their own journey, dreams, and relationship with their iconic father.
The Children from Four Marriages
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From his first marriage to Diane Kirk:
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Debby Campbell: The oldest surviving child, Debby was a featured performer in her father’s shows for many years. She’s carried on Glen’s legacy through her own musical pursuits and public appearances.
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From his second marriage to Billie Jean Nunley:
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Kelli Campbell
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Travis Campbell
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Wesley Campbell
These three children were noticeably left out of Glen’s will, sparking a highly publicized legal dispute after his death. Despite the family friction, they’ve each stayed connected to his memory in their own way.
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From his third marriage to Sarah Barg:
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Dillon Campbell: A Nashville-based singer-songwriter, Dillon followed in his father’s musical footsteps, crafting his own voice in the Americana and indie scene.
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From his fourth and final marriage to Kim Woollen:
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Cal Campbell: Played drums during Glen’s final tours.
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Shannon Campbell: Played guitar, often performing side by side with Glen.
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Ashley Campbell: A talented banjo player and singer, Ashley became the most prominent of Glen’s children in music. She launched a solo career, releasing songs inspired by her father and their bond, especially as he battled Alzheimer’s.
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Life After Glen’s Passing
When Glen Campbell died in 2017 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s, his children responded in different ways. Some chose to stay quiet, while others—like Ashley and Debby—became public faces of his legacy. A few of his children became embroiled in a legal challenge regarding the contents of Glen’s will, which excluded three of his adult children from a prior marriage. The matter led to an emotional and complicated chapter for the family, as they navigated not just grief but questions of inheritance and intent.
Ashley often speaks publicly about her father’s final years and has honored him through music and storytelling. Her song “Remembering” became a moving anthem of her love and pain during his decline.
A Family Bound by Music and Memory
Though each of Glen Campbell’s children had a different journey, many inherited not only his talent but also his charisma and resilience. Some perform. Some write. Some live quietly outside the spotlight. But all are forever tied to the man who strummed his guitar with a mix of hope, heartbreak, and undeniable brilliance.
Glen Campbell may be gone, but through his children, his music—and the family saga behind it—continues to echo in the hearts of fans everywhere.