Introduction
Alan Jackson’s Daughter Shares Heartfelt Tribute to Her Beloved Father as She Welcomes Baby Boy
The Jackson family has just grown a little bigger—country music legend Alan Jackson is now a proud grandfather of two. And the meaning behind the newest member’s name is enough to bring anyone to tears.
Maddie Jackson, Alan’s eldest daughter, gave birth to her first child—a baby boy named Wesley Allen Smith—on June 20, alongside her husband Connor Smith. She took to Instagram to write:
“There is no greater honor in life than being chosen by God to be your mom, and no sweeter joy than watching your daddy adore you and protect you already.”
Even Ryman, the family dog who once ruled the house, has slowly warmed up to his new little brother.
Maddie first announced her pregnancy back in February and, at the time, opened up about the delicate balance of joy and grief. “I wanted nothing but absolute joy in that post,” she wrote, “but there’s so much more I need to say. Hope in recent years has been a battle—a daily choice, an act of defiance against fear, loss, and anxiety.”
She reflected on how grief has taught her to slow down and be present, writing:
“There is no moment more worth slowing down for than when years of waiting and hope finally arrive. Celebrate, my friends—make the little things big, and the big things a celebration. Pop some bottles, call your friends, throw a party.”
This baby boy marks an incredibly meaningful milestone, not just for Maddie, but for the whole Jackson family. Maddie’s journey to love has been filled with deep heartbreak. She tragically lost her first husband, Ben Selecman, in 2018 after a fatal accident. He was just 28 and served as an assistant district attorney in Davidson County, Tennessee.
Her grief later inspired her book “Lemons on Friday,” in which she shared her healing process and personal story. Years later, Maddie found love again with Connor Smith, and the couple tied the knot in May 2023. Now, they are welcoming their first child—a long-awaited blessing after seasons of prayer.
Their son’s name, Wesley Allen Smith, holds deep meaning: “Wesley” honors Connor’s grandfather, while “Allen” pays tribute to Maddie’s father, Alan Jackson.
Alan and his wife Denise also shared their excitement online:
“We’re so happy to announce the arrival of our grandson, Wesley Allen Smith.”
Alan will have a few weeks to soak up time with his new grandson before heading out on what he’s calling his final tour: “Last Call: One More for the Road,” covering 10 cities between August 2024 and May 2025.
“I’ve been touring for over 30 years,” Alan shares in a press release. “My daughters are grown. We’ve got one grandchild—and now another. I’m enjoying spending time at home.”
What’s your favorite Alan Jackson song? Share it in the comments—and don’t forget to send some love and congratulations to Maddie, Connor, and baby Wesley!