The culinary world and fans of heartwarming family stories know Ree Drummond as the vibrant “Pioneer Woman.” From her engaging blog to her successful Food Network show and product lines, Drummond has built a beloved brand around her life on an Oklahoma ranch. However, recent online searches asking “Did The Pioneer Woman Passed Away” indicate some confusion. Let’s clarify the situation and explore the true family tragedy Ree Drummond has faced.
A black and white photo of Ree hugging her brother, they are sat on a car, both are children
A touching childhood photo of Ree Drummond with her brother Michael Smith, capturing their close bond.
The question of whether Ree Drummond passed away is thankfully false. Ree Drummond is alive and continuing her work. However, the online inquiries likely stem from the sad news of the passing of her older brother, Michael Smith, in October 2021. This significant personal loss for the Pioneer Woman and her family understandably led to an outpouring of sympathy and public discussion.
The Loss of Michael Smith: Ree Drummond’s Brother
Michael Smith, Ree Drummond’s older brother, passed away on October 30, 2021, at the age of 54. While the specific cause of death was not publicly disclosed, a close friend mentioned it was sudden and without suffering. The news was initially shared by family friends and Ree’s sister, Betsy, before Ree Drummond herself addressed the loss in heartfelt social media posts.
Black and white photo of two young children sat in a cart, Ree is on the left and her brother is on the right, reaching out to touch her cheek
A poignant image of Ree and Michael as young children, illustrating their lifelong connection.
In a moving tribute, Ree described Michael as “everything” and expressed the deep bond they shared. “It isn’t possible to sum up the life of someone as perfectly wonderful as my brother Michael,” she wrote, emphasizing their lifelong friendship and the cherished memories. She also requested prayers for her parents, highlighting their profound devotion to Michael and the immense impact of his loss on them.
Remembering Michael Smith: A Beloved Community Member
Michael Smith was not just Ree Drummond’s brother; he was a cherished individual in his hometown of Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Growing up alongside Ree and their two other siblings, Michael held a special place in the community. Despite facing special needs, he was known for his engaging personality and genuine interest in others, particularly local first responders.
Ree Drummond
A recent photo of Ree Drummond, dispelling any rumors and highlighting her continued presence.
Tributes poured in from local organizations following his passing. The Washington County Emergency Management Agency hailed him as a “legend and icon,” and the Bartlesville Professional Firefighters Union recognized him as “one of a kind.” These heartfelt messages underscored Michael’s positive impact on his community and the deep affection people held for him. For fans of The Pioneer Woman, Michael was also a familiar face, having appeared on Ree’s show and been mentioned in her blog, further solidifying his connection to her public life.
While searches for “did the pioneer woman passed away” are based on a misunderstanding, they highlight the strong connection fans feel with Ree Drummond and her family. The outpouring of concern and the subsequent discovery of the news of her brother Michael’s passing reveal the audience’s empathy and care for the Pioneer Woman and her loved ones during times of both joy and sorrow. Ree Drummond continues to thrive, but the memory of her brother Michael Smith remains a significant part of her story and a reminder of the personal challenges even public figures face.
