Introduction

Ralna English is more than a name associated with classic television music. She is a living symbol of grace, longevity, and devotion to artistry. Best known as half of the beloved duo Guy & Ralna on The Lawrence Welk Show, her voice helped shape one of America’s most cherished musical eras.

Following the passing of her former husband and longtime singing partner Guy Hovis at age 84 on January 22, 2026, public interest in Ralna English has surged. Yet her story stands powerfully on its own — a life built on music, resilience, and quiet excellence.

Who She Is

Ralna Eve English is an American singer born on June 19, 1942, in Haskell, Texas. She rose to national fame through her performances on The Lawrence Welk Show, where she became one of the most recognizable and respected vocalists of the program’s 30-year run.

With her warm stage presence and crystal-clear tone, Ralna represented elegance in American television music, earning admiration from fans across generations.

Her Connection to the Celebrity

Ralna English was married to singer Guy Hovis from 1969 to 1984. Together, they formed the iconic husband-and-wife duo Guy & Ralna, becoming one of the most popular acts on The Lawrence Welk Show.

Their musical chemistry made them unforgettable. Even after their divorce, they continued performing together, showing mutual respect and a deep shared love for music.

Why She Is Relevant Now

Recently, Guy Hovis made headlines following his death at age 84 after several weeks in the hospital. Ralna English announced the news in an emotional Facebook post, writing that she was “devastated” and that he “died peacefully.”

No medical cause of death has been publicly disclosed, and the family has requested privacy.

While the trend centers on Hovis’s passing, it has also brought renewed focus to Ralna English — the woman who shared both a stage and a life chapter with him, and whose own legacy remains remarkably strong.

Early Life & Childhood

Ralna English was raised in Lubbock, Texas, where her musical talent emerged early. As a teenager, she formed a group called “Ralna and the Ad-Libs.” In a remarkable twist of history, one of her competitors in a local battle-of-the-bands competition was Buddy Holly, another Lubbock native who would go on to become a rock-and-roll legend.

Even in her youth, Ralna displayed a rare combination of confidence, discipline, and vocal control.

Family Background, Parents & Siblings

Ralna has always been deeply family-oriented. Although the full names of her parents have not been widely documented in public records, she has often credited her upbringing with shaping her character and musical sensitivity.

She has two sisters, whose recipes later became part of her Ralna English Family Cookbook. The cookbook also included cherished contributions from her aunts, grandmother, mother, and extended relatives, reflecting a strong generational bond rooted in tradition and love.

Rather than public fame, her family life has always centered on privacy, heritage, and connection.

Education

Ralna attended Texas Tech University, where she refined her musical direction. She later sang commercial jingles in Dallas, gaining professional experience before stepping into the national spotlight.

Career or Profession

In the late 1960s, Ralna moved to California and began performing regularly at The Horn nightclub in Santa Monica. It was there that she met Guy Hovis, a Mississippi native who shared her passion for music.

They married on January 25, 1969, and that same year, Ralna joined The Lawrence Welk Show as a soloist. When Guy joined shortly after, their duet during a Christmas episode became an instant sensation.

By February 1970, Guy & Ralna were officially part of the regular cast. For the next 13 years, until the show ended in 1982, they became one of its most popular acts.

In March 2007, Ralna starred in a PBS special titled Ralna English: From My Heart, performing with a 75-piece orchestra and a 100-voice choir — a testament to her enduring artistry.

She later released the Ralna English Family Cookbook, blending music and family heritage into one heartfelt project.

Connection to the Celebrity (Guy Hovis)

Recently, Guy Hovis made headlines following his death, which naturally brought attention back to his musical partner. But Ralna’s identity has always stood independently.

Their relationship was unique:

• Married partners

• Professional collaborators

• Respectful co-performers even after divorce

She once said in 2012:

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

That statement reflects maturity, affection, and professionalism rarely seen.

Personal Life / Relationships

After her divorce from Guy Hovis in 1984, Ralna remained devoted to her music and family. She has lived a peaceful life in Arizona, where she once described herself as:

“Just resting on my laurels… having fun in my old age.”

Even in her 80s, she continues to sing when the occasion arises. She has an adopted daughter named Julie Hovis.

Net Worth

Ralna English’s exact net worth has never been publicly disclosed. However, her decades-long television career, PBS specials, album recordings, and continued public admiration reflect a life rich in artistic value and stability.

Interesting Facts

• She once competed against Buddy Holly in a teen music contest.

• Her PBS special featured a 100-voice choir.

• She co-authored a family cookbook rooted in heritage.

• She still sings into her 80s.

• She remained close to Guy Hovis even after their divorce.

 

Recent News or Updates

Ralna English announced the death of Guy Hovis on January 22, 2026, stating he had been hospitalized for several weeks and died peacefully.

No official cause of death has been released, and the family has asked for privacy.

Conclusion

Ralna English is not only the former wife of Guy Hovis. She is a living chapter of American television music history. Her voice, poise, and resilience represent a generation of performers who carried elegance without excess and emotion without spectacle.

While recent events have brought her name back into the spotlight, her legacy has always been luminous.

FAQs

Who is Ralna English?
Ralna English is an American singer born June 19, 1942, best known for her role on The Lawrence Welk Show and as part of the duo Guy & Ralna.

Was Ralna English married to Guy Hovis?
Yes. They were married from 1969 to 1984 and remained professional partners even after divorce.

Is Ralna English still alive?
Yes. She currently lives in Arizona and still sings occasionally.

What happened to Guy Hovis?
Guy Hovis died peacefully on January 22, 2026, after spending several weeks in the hospital. No official cause of death has been released.

What made Ralna English famous?
Her performances on The Lawrence Welk Show and her duet partnership with Guy Hovis made her a household name.