Country music star Scotty McCreery is mourning the heartbreaking loss of both his grandmothers, who passed away just hours apart on July 9, 2025. The emotional toll was deeply felt just one day later, when he performed his hit song “Five More Minutes” on stage and was visibly overcome with emotion.
A Double Family Tragedy Strikes the McCreerys
On July 10, Scotty shared the devastating news with fans through a heartfelt message:
“My heart is absolutely broken. Yesterday, both my Grandma Janet and my Grandma Paquita passed away… I’m choosing to remember the great memories we all made with both of them.”
Scotty posted a touching photo of both grandmothers on his wedding day in 2018, standing beside him and his wife Gabi. The couple has a two-year-old son, Avery, and are currently expecting their second child.
Scotty’s mother, Judy McCreery, shared more about the circumstances of their passing. Her mother, Janet, passed away shortly after 1 PM following complications from norovirus, the flu, and pneumonia. She was 85.
Only three hours later, Scotty’s paternal grandmother, Paquita, passed away at age 93 after a period of declining health. Paquita won the hearts of many when she appeared on Celebrity Family Feud in 2018 and playfully flirted with Steve Harvey, making millions laugh
Scotty’s Emotional Performance of “Five More Minutes” at Ohio Concert
Despite his grief, Scotty chose to honor his commitment and perform at the Country Concert Festival in Fort Loramie, Ohio on July 10—the day after the tragedy. While on stage, he sang “Five More Minutes,” a song that already carried deep meaning for him, having been written shortly after his grandfather’s passing.
The emotional weight of the moment became too much. Scotty could be seen choking up and fighting back tears as he sang the heartfelt lyrics. The crowd, aware of what he was going through, offered quiet support.
Watch the Emotional Performance:
The Story Behind “Five More Minutes”
Scotty co-wrote “Five More Minutes” in 2015 with Frank Rogers and Monty Criswell, two weeks after his grandfather’s death. He once explained how the writing session naturally evolved into a reflection on family, memories, and the moments we wish we could relive:
“There are still a few things I wish I could have said to him and things I wish I could have done again with him.”
The song debuted at the Grand Ole Opry in 2016 and became Scotty’s first #1 single in 2017. The music video, featuring real home footage from Scotty’s childhood, was dedicated to both of his grandfathers.
Now, the song takes on even more meaning as Scotty mourns the loss of his two grandmothers, just as he once did with his grandfathers.
Fans Send Love and Support to Scotty
The video of Scotty’s tearful performance quickly circulated on social media. One TikTok user, mattrickkkk, wrote:
“Scotty singing Five More Minutes tonight at Country Concert was saddening, heartbreaking, and beautiful all at the same time! Prayers for Scotty’s family during this hard time…”
The comment section was filled with supportive messages and prayers from fans who were moved by his strength, vulnerability, and love for his family.
Conclusion: A Song That Speaks for All of Us
“Five More Minutes” was always about longing for more time with those we love. For Scotty McCreery, that sentiment is now more personal than ever. In the face of unimaginable grief, he continues to show the heart and authenticity that made fans fall in love with him in the first place.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Scotty, Gabi, Judy, and the entire McCreery family as they honor the lives of Janet and Paquita, two women who clearly left a lasting mark.