Patsy Bruce was the co-writer for one of country music’s most iconic songs-- “Mommas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys.” She passed away on May 16th at 81-years old.
She wrote this song with her then-husband Ed Bruce. He recorded his own version of the song before country legends Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson took it to new heights.
Although, this songwriting couple was not a one-hit-wonder. They also co-wrote “Texas (When I Die)” for Tanya Tucker, as well as “Tell ‘Em I’ve Gone Crazy” and “Girls, Women, and Ladies.”
Patsy was part of the Nashville Songwriters Association International until the 1980s. Her career also extended into movies and TV; she was the casting director for both Urban Cowboy and Maverick.
“Mommas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys” was autobiographical, according to Taste of Country. It reflected the struggles of the couple.
She was a creative and talented woman who fought for songwriter rights, as well as a musical pioneer.