Margie Washichek is best known as the first wife of Jimmy Buffett, the famous American singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur. While she maintains a relatively low profile, her connection to Buffett, particularly during the early stages of his career, has left a lasting impact on his journey. Although their marriage was short-lived, lasting from 1969 to 1972, it shaped some of the foundational years of Buffett’s life and career.
Born and raised in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Washichek’s early life remains somewhat private, with little known about her upbringing or family. What is clear, however, is that she played an important role during the formative years of Buffett’s career. The couple met while they were both attending the University of Southern Mississippi, where Buffett was beginning to develop his passion for music. Margie, a supportive partner, followed him to Nashville, where Buffett struggled to establish himself in the country music scene
Their marriage, however, faced significant challenges. Buffett, at the time, was grappling with financial difficulties and a burgeoning drug problem, including a cocaine addiction. Despite Margie’s efforts to support him, these issues put a strain on their relationship, leading to their divorce in 1972. After their separation, Buffett moved to Key West, where he eventually found his musical niche, pioneering the island-inspired sound that would become his hallmark
Despite their split, Washichek’s influence on Buffett’s life did not vanish. She was a crucial part of the early years when Buffett was still building his career. The couple’s divorce marked a pivotal moment in Buffett’s personal and professional life, setting him on the path that would lead to the creation of iconic songs like Margaritaville
While Margie Washichek has kept her life relatively private since the divorce, she remains an enigmatic figure in the story of Buffett’s rise to fame. Unlike Buffett’s second wife, Jane Slagsvol, whom he married in 1977 and with whom he had three children, Margie has chosen not to remarry and has stayed out of the public eye. Her net worth is estimated at $150,000
Margie’s legacy, though not as widely recognized as Buffett’s, is an integral part of the narrative surrounding his success. From their beginnings in Mississippi to their time in Nashville, Washichek helped shape the early days of one of the most celebrated careers in American music. While the public focus has always been on Buffett’s persona as the ultimate “island escapist,” Margie Washichek’s quiet yet impactful presence continues to be an essential part of his story
