Last updated on: August 21, 2025
Carrie Underwood is a household name when it comes to country music. Her great voice and warm heart have endeared her to millions. Behind her success, however, is her father, Stephen Underwood. He is not a celebrity, but he has directed much of Carrie’s career. Stephen is a hard, humble, and loving man who has always believed in his daughter.
Quick Facts About Stephen Underwood
| Full Name | Stephen Underwood |
| Birthdate | N/A |
| Occupation | Sawmill worker, later truck driver / paper mill operator |
| Husband/Wife | Married to Carole Underwood (since 1968) |
| Education | N/A |
| Age | N/A |
| Parents | Not Known |
| Grandchildren | Breanna Means, Sarah Carolein Cruz, Cody Means, Max Means |
| Children | Daughters: Shanna Underwood, Stephanie Underwood, Carrie Underwood |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
Early Life and Work
Stephen Underwood was raised in Oklahoma. He had a humble life and learned to work hard at an early age. Through the years, he performed various jobs to sustain his family. He began as a sawmill worker. Afterward, he became a truck driver and occasionally a paper mill worker. These were difficult jobs, yet Stephen never uttered a word of complaint. His relentless work ethic became a lesson his daughters, particularly Carrie, learned.
Marriage and Family
In 1968, Stephen was married to Carole Underwood. For 25 years, Carole was an elementary school teacher. They created a close and happy family together. They had three daughters:
- Shanna Underwood (the oldest)
- Stephanie Underwood (the middle daughter)
- Carrie Underwood (the youngest, and future singing sensation)
The family resided on a farm in Checotah, Oklahoma. The lifestyle was simple but rich in love. Stephen and Carole instilled in their daughters the value of faith, kindness, and education. These virtues kept Carrie grounded even when she became famous.
Supporting Carrie’s Dream
Stephen was a reserved man himself, but his encouragement came louder than words. He attended Carrie’s initial performances within school choirs and local competitions. Though he was not himself a musician, he realized his daughter was gifted. He never pushed her but let her pursue her heart.
Stephen and Carole were beaming with pride when Carrie won American Idol in 2005. They had watched her progress from singing at small-town functions to performing on the largest stage in America. Stephen’s faith in her inspired Carrie to persevere even during difficult times.
Personality and Influence
Those who know him say he is reserved, kind, and diligent. He does not like being in the limelight and wants to lead a private life. But he was always there for his family. His unassuming strength helped Carrie to face fame with dignity.
Carrie has talked much about her father. She has expressed her love and appreciation on Father’s Day and other holidays. She frequently states that her father’s unwavering belief in her goals enabled her to be the person she is today.
READ ALSO: Carrie Underwood Net worth, Age, Husband, Family, Facts & More
A Proud Grandfather
Stephen’s family expanded in the years that followed. In 2010, Carrie wed Mike Fisher, a Canadian hockey player. They have two sons together:
Isaiah Michael Fisher, born February 27, 2015
Jacob Bryan Fisher, born 2019
Stephen is now a grandfather. He likes spending time with his grandsons and seeing his family increase.
