Recommended Free Tools
Guy Hovis, the singer familiar to viewers of The Lawrence Welk Show as one half of the duo Guy & Ralna, died on January 22, 2026, at age 84, according to reports published the following day. His death was confirmed by former wife and musical partner Ralna English and, separately, by his daughter Julie, as reported by Forbes and TMZ.
What has been reported about Guy Hovis’s death
Forbes reported on January 23, 2026, that Hovis died the previous day at 84, citing English’s Facebook post. TMZ separately reported that his daughter Julie confirmed his death and said he died in Oxford, Mississippi. TMZ also reported that he had been hospitalized for several weeks with an undisclosed illness. The reports reviewed do not identify a specific cause of death.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
![TV Treasures[DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51csC8J1EzL._SL160_.jpg)
|
TV Treasures[DVD] | $17.55 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Classic Episodes of the Lawrence Welk Show: Vol. 1-4 | $21.22 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
![Milestone And Memories[DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51fSpJCb+SL._SL160_.jpg)
|
Milestone And Memories[DVD] | $17.91 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Lawrence Welk Show - The Classic Episodes Vol. 1 | $13.02 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Lawrence Welk Precious Memories | $9.68 | Buy on Amazon |
Why viewers knew him from The Lawrence Welk Show
Hovis became a regular on The Lawrence Welk Show after English, who had joined the program in 1969, persuaded Welk to invite him to sing a duet. Forbes says their first appearance featured “Little Toy Trains.” Hovis went on to perform with English as Guy & Ralna, as well as sing solo numbers on the program, according to TMZ and The Daily Beast.
Hovis’s career beyond the show
Early television and recording work
Before his Welk Show appearances, Hovis had an early television appearance on Art Linkletter’s daytime program House Party. He later formed the singing duo Guy & David with David Blaylock and signed a recording contract with ABC Records. After the duo disbanded, Hovis performed solo and met English, Forbes reports.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
#1 Best Overall
Ministry and public service
Forbes reports that Hovis began a Christian music ministry in 1986, performing at churches and public events. From 1990 through 2007, he served as state director for former U.S. Senator Trent Lott while continuing to perform occasionally. The report also notes appearances with Dinah Shore and Jim Nabors, and on programs hosted by Johnny Carson, Merv Griffin, Mike Douglas and Joey Bishop.
Inauguration performance and Hall of Fame recognition
Hovis sang “Let the Eagle Soar” at George W. Bush’s second inauguration in 2005, according to TMZ and The Daily Beast. The Daily Beast also reports that he was inducted into the Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame in 2021.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #3
Rank #2
- REGION 1 CODED DVD (US & CANADA)
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.
