Introduction

Guy Hovis, the beloved singer who charmed millions through his long-running performances on The Lawrence Welk Show, has passed away at the age of 84. Known for his smooth vocals, warm stage presence, and iconic duets with his former wife Ralna English, Hovis left an enduring mark on American television music history. His death, announced on January 22, 2026, has brought renewed attention to a career that blended talent, devotion, and grace.

While fans mourn his passing, many are also seeking clarity about the cause of death and a deeper look into the man behind the music.

Who He Was

Guy Hovis was an American singer best remembered for his years on The Lawrence Welk Show, one of the most influential musical television programs of the 20th century. His performances, particularly as part of the husband-and-wife duo “Guy & Ralna,” helped define the romantic, wholesome style the show became famous for.

With a voice that was often described as effortless and emotionally rich, Hovis embodied a classic era of television entertainment built on elegance and sincerity.

Their Connection to the Celebrity

Hovis rose to national recognition through his partnership with Lawrence Welk, the legendary bandleader and television host. But it was his musical and personal partnership with fellow singer Ralna English that truly shaped his public identity.

Together, they became one of the most adored acts on the program, symbolizing harmony both on and off the stage.

Why He Is Relevant Now

The recent news of Guy Hovis’s death on January 22, 2026, has brought his name back into headlines, reigniting admiration for his artistry and legacy. His former wife and singing partner, Ralna English, shared the heartbreaking update on Facebook, writing that she was “devastated” and confirming he had died peacefully after several weeks in the hospital.

Although the exact medical cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, it has been respectfully described as a peaceful passing following a period of hospitalization.

Early Life & Childhood

Guy Hovis was born in 1941 in Mississippi, where his love for music began early. According to his biography, he started singing in church at just five years old, a foundation that shaped his vocal discipline and emotional delivery.

Music became both his spiritual and creative outlet long before fame found him.

Family Background, Parents & Siblings

Hovis was raised in a close-knit Mississippi family. While his parents’ names have not been widely documented in public media, they were deeply influential in nurturing his musical gifts, particularly through church involvement.

He also had siblings, though their names and private lives have largely remained outside the spotlight. Throughout his life, Guy valued family privacy, choosing to let his music speak publicly while keeping personal relationships grounded and protected.

Education

Guy Hovis was not only musically gifted but academically accomplished. He graduated from the University of Mississippi with a degree in accounting and later served two years in the U.S. Army. His disciplined background reflected the steady professionalism he brought to his entertainment career.

Career or Profession

Before fame, Hovis briefly recorded as part of a duo called Guy & David. His major breakthrough came in 1969 when he performed a Christmas duet with Ralna English on The Lawrence Welk Show.

The response was overwhelming.

In a 2024 interview with WTVA, Hovis recalled:

“He got a ton of mail… He’d never had a husband-and-wife team on his show.”

That reaction led Lawrence Welk to invite Guy to join the program permanently. From February 1970 onward, “Guy & Ralna” became regular performers, appearing for more than a decade. In total, Hovis was connected to the show for 27 years.

Over his career, he recorded 15 albums, blending traditional pop, gospel, and romantic ballads.

Connection to the Celebrity (Lawrence Welk)

Lawrence Welk was not just Hovis’s employer but a career-defining figure. Welk recognized the emotional chemistry between Guy and Ralna, transforming them into one of the show’s most beloved duos.

Recently, as news of Hovis’s passing spread, tributes poured in from former cast members, including The Lennon Sisters, who wrote:

“An amazing talented singer with a voice beyond perfection… a kind, loyal friend.”

Personal Life / Relationships

Guy Hovis married Ralna English in 1969, the same year they debuted as a duet. They were married until 1984, yet continued performing together even after their divorce.

English once said in 2012:

“Guy and I have a ball working together. We just love being on stage.”

In 2002, Hovis married Sarah “Sis” Lundy, with whom he shared a quiet, loving life away from television. He was the father of three children and a proud grandfather to five grandchildren.

Family members mentioned by Ralna English in her tribute included:

• Julie

• Sis (Sarah Lundy)

• His extended family, whom she asked for prayers

 

Net Worth

Guy Hovis’s exact net worth was never publicly disclosed. However, his long television career, album recordings, and performances at major national events suggest a stable and comfortable livelihood rooted more in legacy than luxury.

Interesting Facts

• He sang at George W. Bush’s 2005 presidential inauguration, performing “Let the Eagle Soar.”

• He worked for the U.S. Senate after returning to Mississippi in 1990.

• He began singing professionally in church at age five.

• He recorded 15 albums throughout his career.

• He remained musically active well into retirement.

 

Recent News or Updates

Guy Hovis died on January 22, 2026, after several weeks in the hospital. According to Ralna English, he “died peacefully.”
The exact cause of death has not been publicly released, and the family has requested privacy during their time of grief.

Conclusion

Guy Hovis was more than a television singer. He was a symbol of grace, harmony, and emotional sincerity in American music. His voice carried comfort, romance, and dignity across generations, and his partnership with Ralna English remains one of television’s most cherished musical legacies.

Though he is gone, the warmth of his music continues to echo.

FAQs

What was Guy Hovis’s cause of death?
The exact medical cause of death has not been publicly disclosed. He passed away peacefully after several weeks in the hospital.

Who was Guy Hovis married to?
He was first married to singer Ralna English (1969–1984) and later married Sarah “Sis” Lundy in 2002.

How long was Guy Hovis on The Lawrence Welk Show?
He appeared in connection with the show for a total of 27 years, beginning as a regular in 1970.

Did Guy Hovis have children?
Yes. He was a father of three and a grandfather of five.

What made Guy Hovis famous?
His romantic duets with Ralna English on The Lawrence Welk Show made him a beloved household name.