Heartbreak and resilience often go hand in hand, and for Kimberly Schlapman, a member of the renowned country band Little Big Town, this has been a significant part of her life story. In 2005, tragedy struck when her first husband, Steven Roads, unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack at the young age of 41. This incident not only devastated Schlapman but also sent shockwaves through the entire band as they were out on tour at the time. Roads was not just Kimberly's partner; he also served as the band's attorney, further intertwining their personal and professional lives.
Following Steven's death, many wondered how Kimberly would cope. As her bandmate, Karen Fairchild, shared with CBS News, there was a palpable sense of sorrow in Schlapman's eyes, leading some to believe that she might never sing again. However, the support of her friends proved invaluable during this challenging time, as they rallied around her, offering love and encouragement. Among these friends was Stephen Schlapman, who would eventually become her second husband.
Initially, Stephen was merely an old friend checking in on Kimberly as she navigated her grief. However, their relationship blossomed unexpectedly. Kimberly candidly revealed that she hadn’t planned on falling in love again, but Stephen's consistent presence and understanding nature helped her heal. Let’s delve deeper into the love story that emerged from this tragic beginning.
Biography of Kimberly Schlapman
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Kimberly Schlapman |
| Date of Birth | October 15, 1972 |
| Profession | Country Music Artist |
| Band | Little Big Town |
| First Husband | Steven Roads |
| Current Husband | Stephen Schlapman |
| Children | Daisy (born 2007), Dolly (adopted in 2017) |
Friendship Blossoms into Love
When Stephen Schlapman began reaching out to Kimberly Roads, he provided a crucial support system during her time of intense grief. Although he had not experienced the same loss of a spouse, he understood the depth of her sorrow as a close friend. In her own words, Kimberly explained, “He hadn’t lost a mate, but he had lost a close friend.” This mutual understanding helped them bond during a time when Kimberly needed it most.
As they talked regularly, Stephen became more than just a friend; he became a source of comfort and healing. Kimberly shared her memories of Steven Roads with him, and he listened patiently, allowing her to express her grief without judgment. This connection laid the groundwork for their romantic relationship, which blossomed in the face of adversity.
In 2006, Kimberly and Stephen married, marking a new chapter in her life. Despite facing fertility challenges during her first marriage, she became pregnant during their honeymoon, a moment she described as “the most incredible gift.” Kimberly believes that this blessing was a wedding gift from her late husband, reinforcing the idea that love can transcend even the most profound losses.
Building a Family Together
Kimberly and Stephen welcomed their daughter, Daisy, in 2007, which filled their lives with joy and love. This new family dynamic was a welcome shift for Kimberly, who had endured significant heartache. In 2017, they expanded their family further by adopting a baby girl named Dolly, fulfilling their dream of having children together.
This journey of love and resilience showcases Kimberly Schlapman’s ability to overcome obstacles and find happiness again. Her story serves as a reminder that even in the face of heartbreak, new beginnings are possible. The love she shares with Stephen not only honors her past but also creates a bright future for their family.
What You Will Learn
Key Takeaways
- Kimberly Schlapman's journey through grief highlights the importance of support from friends.
- The resilience of the human spirit can lead to new love even after significant loss.
- Friendship can evolve into something deeper, especially during tough times.
- Building a family can be a source of joy and healing after experiencing heartbreak.
