A Tribute to Kris Kristofferson by Marion Toehay Jr., Friend and Former Chief of Police

Marion Toehay Jr., a close friend of Benjamin Groff II, who typically authors this page, shares his heartfelt memories today as the world mourns the passing of Kris Kristofferson. The legendary singer-songwriter passed away on Saturday at age 88 in Hawaii. Marion met Kris in the summer of 1968, during the early days of Kristofferson’s career, at the Silver Dollar Saloon in Phoenix, Arizona.

In 1980, Marion became Benjamin’s first Chief of Police in Oklahoma, and today, he reflects on the unforgettable encounter he had with Kris all those years ago:

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Kris Kristofferson was one of a kind. I had the chance to meet him when I was just 13 years old, working with my stepdad during the summer of 1968. We were selling produce to bars around Phoenix, Tucson, and the mining towns in the White Mountains. On our last stop in Phoenix, at a place called the Silver Dollar Saloon in what was known as Cowtown, we went inside—and there he was.

I remember seeing Kris Kristofferson stand up from a table and walk right over to us. He greeted my stepdad like an old friend, saying, “Y’all come sit down and have a beer.” At the table with him were none other than Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings.

My stepdad had always told me he knew Kristofferson, Cash, and Jennings, but up until then, I hadn’t met them myself. Every time we passed through, they just weren’t there. I was starting to think I’d never get the chance to meet them. But that evening, out of nowhere, they were larger than life. It was like a dream come true for me—a 14-year-old kid with a love for country life.

We spent the evening laughing, sharing stories, and, yes, drinking some beer. When we finally headed home, my mom awaited us, wondering why it had taken so long. I told her about meeting Kris, Johnny, and Waylon, and she just smiled and said, “Oh, okay,” as if it was no big deal. She’d met them before, too, thanks to my stepdad. But for me, it was the highlight of the summer—and a memory I’ll never forget.

Hearing about Kris Kristofferson’s passing is sad for everyone who admires him. My family and I send our deepest condolences and hope he rests in peace.