Alan Jackson’s Daughter Mattie Welcomes First Child — Baby Boy’s Name Pays Tribute to the Country Legend
Country music icon Alan Jackson is celebrating a new chapter in his family’s story, as his eldest daughter, Mattie Jackson Smith, has welcomed her first child — a baby boy whose name carries a heartfelt nod to her famous father.
On Thursday, June 20, Mattie, 34, and her husband, Connor Smith, became parents to their son, Wesley Alan Smith. Sharing the joyful news on Instagram this week, the new mom posted a series of tender photographs from Wesley’s first days, including moments with both parents and the couple’s dog, Ryman.
“One week ago my life was forever changed,” Mattie wrote in her caption. “Wesley Alan Smith joined our little family on June 20th, the absolute best birthday gift I could have ever imagined. There is no greater honor in life than being chosen by God to be your mom. And no sweeter joy than watching your daddy adore you and protect you already.” She added with humor and affection, “Even Ryman has reluctantly warmed up to her new little brother.”
Mattie also revealed that Wesley’s middle name honors her father, Alan Jackson, while his first name pays tribute to Connor’s grandfather — a double legacy she believes will guide her son’s future. “If you’re anything like both your namesakes, you’ve got quite a life ahead of you,” she wrote.
The birth comes just over a year after Mattie and Connor tied the knot in June 2023 at The Breakers Palm Beach in Florida. Their wedding, a joyful event surrounded by family and friends, took place eight months after their engagement announcement. Following the ceremony, Mattie expressed her gratitude on social media, writing, “Wooooo we did it!! Grateful is a gigantic understatement. More pretty pics to come later — off to the islands with my HUSBAND!”
Alan Jackson, 65, proudly shared his own message at the time, welcoming Connor into the family. “Denise and I are so happy to officially welcome Connor into our family! Wishing Mattie & Connor Smith a lifetime of happiness… Livin’ on Love!” he posted, referencing one of his beloved hits.
In February 2024, Mattie shared the news of her pregnancy with a beaming Instagram post. In the photo, Connor hugged her from behind as she held a strip of ultrasound images. “I feel like I said so many times last year that 2023 topped the charts with more joy and celebration and redemption than any yet. Well, I have a feeling 2024 may give it a run for its money,” she captioned the announcement. “We are absolutely thrilled to share BABY BOY SMITH coming this June!!!”
For Alan Jackson, the arrival of Wesley marks his second grandchild. The milestone also carries special meaning given Mattie’s personal journey. In 2018, she faced heartbreaking loss when her first husband, Ben Selecman, tragically died following a boating accident. In her 2021 book Lemons on Friday, Mattie shared her path through grief and healing, later finding love again with Connor.
Now, as she steps into motherhood, Mattie’s reflections suggest a deep sense of gratitude and purpose. Her words, paired with the images of a tiny newborn nestled in the arms of a loving family, paint a picture of joy built on resilience.
For fans of Alan Jackson, known for weaving themes of love and family into his music, the news offers a real-life echo of those values. And for Mattie, the first days of life with Wesley mark the beginning of what she calls “the sweetest joy” — a sentiment that will no doubt inspire many more family moments to come.