Annie Martell is best known as the former wife of legendary singer-songwriter John Denver. The couple married in 1967 and were together for over a decade before their divorce in 1982. Annie, who inspired Denver’s iconic song “Annie’s Song,” played a significant role in his life and career during their time together. Despite their separation, the two shared a deep bond and adopted two children, Zachary and Anna Kate, during their marriage. Annie has largely stayed out of the public eye, maintaining a private life away from the spotlight of Denver’s fame. However, her impact on Denver’s life and music remains significant.
Annie Martell’s Early Life in North Carolina
Annie was born in North Carolina in 1945 and grew up in a small rural town. Her father was a farmer, and her mother was a homemaker. As a child, Annie developed a love for music and would often sing with her siblings at home. She also had a passion for helping others and volunteered at local organizations.
How Annie Martell Met John Denver

After high school, Annie attended the University of Minnesota, where she studied education. It was during this time that she met John Denver, who was performing at a local club. The two quickly fell in love and got married shortly after graduation.
Annie Martell’s Role in Denver’s Rise to Fame
As Denver’s fame skyrocketed with hit songs like “Take Me Home, Country Roads” and “Rocky Mountain High,” Annie stood by his side as a supportive partner. She often joined him on tour and even collaborated with him on some of his music.
Annie Martell and the Challenges Behind the Scenes
Despite the seemingly perfect picture of their marriage, behind closed doors, Annie and Denver struggled with issues like infidelity and substance abuse. These challenges ultimately led to their divorce in 1982. However, they remained close friends until Denver’s tragic death in a plane crash in 1997.
Annie Martell’s Life After John Denver
Since their separation, Annie has chosen to live a low-key life, but her impact on Denver’s career continues to be felt through his songs and legacy. After Denver’s passing, Annie established The Windstar Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and sustainability, inspired by Denver’s love for nature.
Annie Martell’s Life Today
Today, Annie resides in Colorado with her two children and continues to be involved in various charitable causes. She may have stepped out of the spotlight, but her role in Denver’s life and music will always be remembered.
Annie Martell’s Lasting Legacy

Annie remains forever known as John Denver’s beloved “Annie Song,” both in his music and heart. Her story serves as a reminder of the power of love and the impact one person can make on another’s life. Despite their divorce, Annie will always hold a special place in Denver’s legacy as an inspiration and partner who stood by him through it all.
FAQs
- Did Annie and John Denver have any children together?
- Yes, they adopted two children during their marriage: Zachary and Anna Kate.
- What is Annie’s role in Denver’s career?
- Annie was a supportive partner who often joined Denver on tour and even collaborated with him on some of his music.
- What happened to Denver and Annie’s marriage?
- They divorced in 1982 due to challenges such as infidelity and substance abuse, but remained close friends until Denver’s death in 1997.
- How has Annie continued to honor Denver’s legacy after his passing?
- She established The Windstar Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and sustainability
For More Inspiring and Latest News, Visit Global Times 24