American Idol alum, Danny Gokey, who lost his wife three years ago, has found love again.
The Idol season 8 finalist announced his engagement to Leyicet Peralta, whom he plans to marry on January 29th.
The singer’s late wife, Sophia Gokey, died after complications from heart surgery.
In her honor, Gokey opened Sophia’s Heart Foundation, a non-profit organization that offers housing for homeless families, GED tutoring, job counseling and life coaching.
Leyicet shares Danny’s commitment to helping families in need, even opting to set a specific budget for the engagement ring. The original ring Danny chose was too big, so the couple went shopping for a new one together.
“Leyicet had a specific budget she did not want to go over,” says a rep for the singer. “The couple know they have a lot of responsibility with Sophia’s Heart, so they wanted to make sure they spent their money wisely.”
According to the rep, Danny surprised Leyicet with the proposal in Miami, taking her to the place they had their first date, and serenading her with, “You Are So Beautiful,” a song her mother used to sing to her as a baby.
The couple announced their engagement on the Sophia’s Heart Foundation website. “We are thankful for so many of the blessings God has given us. It is our desire to see homeless children and families be kept together and lifted back on their feet through the help of Sophia’s Heart. We love and appreciate you all.”
They have asked that in lieu of wedding gifts, donations be made to Sophia’s Heart.
Danny Gokey and Leyicet Peralta engagement photo via: Sophia’s Heart