Early Life and Background
Sharon Summerall, born on October 19, 1962, in Hollywood, California, rose to prominence as the wife of Don Henley, the famous lead vocalist and drummer of the iconic rock band The Eagles. Raised in Dallas, Texas, Sharon’s early life was spent in a close-knit family, though she has kept most of her personal history away from the public eye. Despite her husband’s fame, Sharon has maintained a life out of the spotlight, far removed from the media frenzy that often surrounds high-profile relationships.
Sharon Summerall Career as a Model
Before becoming known as Don Henley’s wife, Sharon Summerall had a successful career as a model. In the 1980s, she signed with top modeling agencies such as Ford Models and Elite Models, gracing magazine covers and runway shows in major fashion capitals like New York, Paris, and Milan. Sharon’s beauty and elegance made her a sought-after model in the industry. However, her career took a backseat after she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), which led her to step away from her career to focus on her health and family.
The Meeting Between Sharon and Don Henley
Sharon’s life took a significant turn when she met Don Henley in 1993. At the time, Henley was already a rock star, known for his powerful voice and contributions to The Eagles. The couple’s connection was instant and deep, with both of them finding in each other a partner for life. Their relationship quickly turned into a serious commitment, and Henley often spoke of how Sharon helped him settle into a more private and family-centered life.
Sharon Summerall Marriage and Family Life
On May 20, 1995, Sharon and Don Henley married in a private yet highly publicized ceremony. The event was attended by many of Henley’s close friends from the music industry, including legends like Bruce Springsteen and Sheryl Crow. The couple’s wedding was a symbol of their deep connection and commitment to each other, with Sharon wearing a stunning off-the-shoulder gown. Henley later wrote the song “Everything Is Different Now”, inspired by his love for Sharon, highlighting how she brought stability and love into his life.
Over the years, Sharon and Don have built a strong, enduring marriage, raising their children away from the paparazzi’s watchful eye. They have three children: Annabel Henley, Julia Sophia Henley, and Will Henley. Their family life, though kept private, reflects their shared values of togetherness, love, and respect for each other’s privacy.
Sharon Summerall Battle with Multiple Sclerosis
One of the most defining aspects of Sharon’s life has been her battle with multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. Sharon was diagnosed with MS in the early 1990s, and her health struggles became public as Don Henley openly discussed her condition. The disease, which causes a variety of symptoms including fatigue, muscle weakness, and difficulty with coordination, forced Sharon to take a step back from her modeling career.
Despite the challenges, Sharon has faced her illness with grace and strength. Her resilience and her ability to manage her health while caring for her family have made her an inspiration to many. Sharon’s condition is often described as relapsing-remitting MS, a form where symptoms improve before returning again. She has continued to manage her condition privately, rarely appearing in public due to the toll the disease takes on her body.
Life Today Sharon Summerall Private World
As of 2026, Sharon Summerall continues to live a quiet, private life with her husband and children in Dallas, Texas. The couple, who rarely make public appearances together, have maintained a lifestyle away from the media’s scrutiny. Sharon’s focus today is on her family and health. While Don Henley still remains active in the music industry, Sharon is content living away from the spotlight.
Her story is one of resilience, love, and the power of family. Sharon has chosen to live life on her own terms, sharing only what she feels is necessary with the public. Her marriage to Don Henley, despite the years of media attention and the personal challenges she has faced, stands as a testament to their deep bond and shared commitment to one another.
Sharon and Don Henley Legacy Together
Though Sharon Summerall is not a public figure in the traditional sense, her role in Don Henley’s life cannot be overstated. She has been his steady partner, supporting him both personally and professionally. Together, they have raised their children away from the limelight, focusing on their family’s happiness and privacy.
Henley’s music, which spans decades, has often reflected his personal experiences, and his love for Sharon is evident in many of his songs. Their shared life and experiences together have played an integral role in Henley’s artistry, making her not only a significant figure in his life but also an influence in his work.
Sharon’s health struggles, her deep love for Henley, and her dedication to her family have shaped her legacy as much as her time as a model did. Today, she may not be in the public eye, but her impact on those who know her is undeniable.
Conclusion
Sharon Summerall’s life may not have been lived in the public spotlight, but her influence on Don Henley and her family is immeasurable. From her early career as a model to her role as a mother and wife, Sharon has created a lasting legacy rooted in love, resilience, and privacy. As she continues her battle with multiple sclerosis, Sharon remains a private, strong figure in the life of one of rock’s greatest musicians. Through their shared life, they have become a symbol of enduring love and commitment in the often tumultuous world of fame.
In a world full of fleeting moments of fame, Sharon and Don Henley’s marriage stands as a quiet reminder that true happiness and love can flourish away from the media’s gaze.
