Ever wondered about the woman behind the man who sings one of the most iconic patriotic anthems in American history? Kimberly Payne, now Kimberly Payne-Greenwood, is far more than just "Lee Greenwood's wife"; she's a beauty queen, an accomplished businesswoman, and the bedrock of a lasting marriage.
Kimberly's story begins long before she met the country music legend. Born on October 17, 1961, she carved her own path to success. Her academic achievements are impressive, having graduated from the University of Tennessee with a bachelor's degree in English and Communications. But it was her charisma and poise that truly set her apart. Before becoming known as Lee Greenwood's wife, Kimberly had already captured the spotlight as a beauty queen. In 1985, she won the Junior Miss Tennessee pageant as a teenager, foreshadowing her later triumph in 1989 when she was crowned Miss Tennessee USA.
| Kimberly Payne-Greenwood: Bio & Career | |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kimberly Payne-Greenwood (née Payne) |
| Birth Date | October 17, 1961 |
| Age | (As of late 2024) 63 years old |
| Birth Place | (Specific birthplace details are not widely available) |
| Education | Bachelor of Arts in English and Communications, University of Tennessee |
| Pageant Titles | Junior Miss Tennessee (1985), Miss Tennessee USA (1989) |
| Occupation | Executive Director for Miss USA State Pageants in Tennessee, Businesswoman |
| Spouse | Lee Greenwood (Married April 11, 1992) |
| Children | Dalton Greenwood, Parker Greenwood |
| Known For | Former Miss Tennessee USA, Wife of Lee Greenwood |
| Additional Information | |
| Marriage to Lee Greenwood | Married on April 11, 1992. Kimberly is 21 years younger than Lee Greenwood, but their age difference has not been a significant issue in their relationship. |
| Relationship Dynamics | Reportedly share a deep bond and mutual respect. Kimberly is often consulted by Lee on important decisions, including wardrobe choices. |
| Family Life | The couple has two sons, Dalton and Parker Greenwood. |
| External Link | |
| Lee Greenwood Official Website |
(Note: Some information may not be readily available and is based on publicly accessible knowledge.)
It was after her reign as Miss Tennessee USA that Kimberly's path intersected with that of Melvin Lee Greenwood. The couple tied the knot on April 11, 1992. While Lee Greenwood's musical journey had already reached significant heights with hits like "God Bless the U.S.A.," Kimberly's presence brought a new dimension to his life. Their marriage, now spanning over three decades, stands as a testament to their commitment and enduring love.
While Lee had been married three times prior to Kimberly, their relationship appears to have brought a sense of stability and joy into his life. Their age difference, with Kimberly being 21 years younger than Lee, has been discussed by the media, but those close to the couple insist it has never been a significant issue. They share a deep bond built on mutual respect and understanding.
Living life in the public eye, especially as the spouse of a celebrated musician, presents unique challenges. Lee Greenwood’s wife has navigated this world with grace and resilience. Every marriage has its share of ups and downs, and theirs is no exception. But through it all, they have persevered, supporting each other through thick and thin. Kimberly's strength and unwavering support have undoubtedly played a crucial role in Lee's continued success.
Beyond her role as a supportive spouse, Kimberly Payne-Greenwood is a force in her own right. She's not just known as Lee Greenwood's wife; she’s an accomplished individual with diverse interests and talents. As the Executive Director for the Miss USA State Pageants in Tennessee, Kimberly continues to be involved in the world of pageantry, mentoring young women and helping them achieve their dreams. She utilizes her own experience and knowledge to guide contestants, offering invaluable advice and support. Her dedication to the pageant community is evident in the success of the Tennessee representatives at the national level.
Moreover, Kimberly is actively involved in various charitable endeavors alongside her husband. The couple uses their platform to raise awareness and support for causes close to their hearts, particularly those related to veterans and children. Their philanthropic efforts reflect their shared values and commitment to giving back to the community. They understand the power of influence and use it to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Their shared passions extend beyond charity work. Kimberly often collaborates with Lee on creative projects, providing input on his music and performances. With a keen eye for fashion, she helps Lee select his wardrobe, ensuring he always looks his best on stage and in public appearances. Her involvement in his career goes beyond simply being a supportive wife; she’s a trusted advisor and partner.
Lee Greenwood's wife is also a devoted mother to their two sons, Dalton and Parker. Raising children in the spotlight can be demanding, but Kimberly has always prioritized their well-being and provided them with a loving and stable home environment. She instilled in them the importance of hard work, respect, and kindness. Their sons have grown into accomplished young men, a testament to the values their parents instilled in them.
While Lee Greenwood may be known for his musical talent, he also plays the saxophone. Despite his busy schedule with tour, musical and family responsibility, he manages all with the help of his wife. In 2024, Lee Greenwood announced his retirement plans which he would embark on after his 2024 tour. Kimberly is expected to be by his side, consulting on various aspects of his farewell tour. This tour celebrates his decades-long career and provides fans with one last opportunity to see him perform his iconic hits live.
In August 2019, Lee Greenwood collaborated with Drew Jacobs on a rock version of "God Bless the U.S.A." Also, Mary Millben debuted a new single "On to Victory" featuring Lee Greenwood ahead of inaugural 'March for Kids' event taking place Saturday, August 31st in Washington, D.C. These collaborations demonstrate Greenwood's continued relevance and willingness to explore new musical avenues.
In November 2016, singer songwriter Lee Greenwood and Lee Greenwood's wife Kimberly Payne attended the 50th annual CMA awards at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. This event highlighted their enduring presence in the country music community.
Lee Greenwood, born Melvin Lee Greenwood on October 27, 1942, in South Gate, California, is an American country music legend. Known for his iconic patriotic anthem "God Bless the U.S.A.," Greenwood's career spans over six decades. The country music legend announced retirement plans ahead of his 2024 tour. Lee Greenwood confirmed he would be retiring.
Lee Greenwood's break came in 1978, when a bandleader for country star Mel Tillis heard one of Greenwood's performances. He was impressed by both his vocal ability and the talent that showed in Greenwood's original compositions. Through hardwork and determination, he achieved a grammy award. He has charted 33 singles on the hot country songs with seven singles reaching the number one.
On April 11, 1992, Lee Greenwood married Kimberly Payne, who had recently held the title of Miss Tennessee. This married couple is the happy guardian of two young men named Dalton and Parker Greenwood. Previously, Lee Greenwood had been married to Melanie Cronk, Roberta Taylor and Edna. Greenwood has been married four times and his current wife is former miss Tennessee USA Kimberly Payne, whom he married in 1992. The couple has two sons together, Dalton and Parker Greenwood.
As of 2025, Lee Greenwood is married to Kimberly Payne. They have been together since 1992 and continue to share a strong bond. Greenwood has been married four times and his current wife is former Miss Tennessee USA Kimberly Payne, whom he married in 1992. The couple has two sons, Dalton and Parker. Country music legend Lee Greenwood, who is celebrating 40 years of his hit song "God Bless the USA" this year, told Newsmax he's looking forward to the special airing only on the network this weekend celebrating his career, and that money raised during the recording of the program enabled the helping heroes charity to award two homes to veterans.
Her participation in the Miss USA pageant allowed Garriga to form friendships with other contestants, including Kim Greenwood, Lee Greenwood’s wife who is a former Miss Tennessee USA and current. In 1985, she won the Junior Miss Tennessee pageant as a teen before earning the Miss Tennessee USA crown in 1989.
