Country Star Gary Allan Mourns Mother, Mary Herzberg, His Biggest Fan and Original Fan Club President

“Mary was so much more than a supportive mother…”

By

Lauren Jo Black

| Posted on

August 25, 2025

at

9:43 am

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Gary Allan with Mom, Mary Herzberg; Photo via Instagram

Gary Allan is mourning the loss of his mother, Mary Herzberg. 

The country hitmaker’s team shared the devastating news of her passing with fans via his official social media account, revealing that she passed away on Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025. 

“It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of Gary’s mom, Mary Herzberg, who passed away yesterday,” the message began.

They went on to share a touching tribute to Mary, reflecting on the many roles she played in the country star’s life. 

“Mary was so much more than a supportive mother—she was Gary’s friend, confidant, biggest critic, biggest fan, his original fan club president, and most importantly, his mom. She championed him not only in his career but also in every part of his life,” they wrote. “If you had the privilege of meeting Mary, whether in person or online, you know the depth of her pride and love for Gary and her entire family. Her warmth, encouragement, and unwavering spirit touched all who knew her.”

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Harley Herzberg, who passed away in September 2008. They were married for 51 years before his death. 

Allan’s team asked fans to keep the family in their thoughts. 

“Please keep Gary, his siblings Tammy and Greg, and the entire Herzberg family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We will miss you dearly, Mama Mary.”

Though Gary Allan tends to keep his personal life private, he shared a heartfelt message for his mom in 2021 for Mother’s Day, writing, “I know everyone thinks they have the best mom but I truly do !!! Thank you mom for all your sacrifice and for always being there for us , I couldn’t imagine a better childhood . I love you so much.” 

After news of Mary’s passing broke, fans filled the comments with condolences and heartfelt tributes.

Gary Allan; Photo by Andrew Wendowski
Gary Allan; Photo by Andrew Wendowski

“I am very sorry to hear this. In the 28 years of being a fan of Gary’s I had many opportunities to see and talk with Ms. Mary.. especially in the early days… a sweet lady and proud Mother,” one user wrote. “My prayers to Gary and his family.”

Another shared, “I’m so sorry, Gary. Mary was a gem! The nights I got the privilege to dance with her and laugh with her will always fill my heart. She even did me a solid @Sycuan last year, and that will always be a cherished moment. Rest in peace, Mama Mary.” 

Information about Mary Herzberg’s services has not been made public.

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Lauren Jo Black

Written by

Lauren Jo Black

Lauren Jo Black, a University of Central Florida graduate, has immersed herself in the world of country music for over 15 years. In 2008, she co-founded CountryMusicIsLove, eventually selling it to a major record label in 2015. Following the rebranding of the website to Sounds Like Nashville, Black served as Editor-in-Chief for two and a half years. Currently, she assumes the role of Editor-in-Chief at Country Now and oversees Country Now’s content and digital footprint. Her extensive experience also encompasses her previous role as a Country Music Expert Writer for Answers.com and her work being featured on Forbes.com. She’s been spotlighted among Country Aircheck’s Women of Influence and received the 2012 Rising Star Award from the University of Central Florida. Black also spent time in front of the camera as host of Country Now Live, which brought live music directly to fans in 2021 when the majority of concerts were halted due to the pandemic. During this time, she hosted 24 weeks of live concerts via Country Now Live on Twitch with special guests such as Lady A, Dierks Bentley, Jordan Davis, Brett Young, and Jon Pardi. Over the course of her career, she has had the privilege of conducting interviews with some of the industry’s most prominent stars, including Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson, and many others. Lauren Jo Black is a longtime member of the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.