Della Beatrice Howard Robinson: Explore Life Story of Ray Charles’ Ex-Wife

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Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, also known as Bea, was married to the famous musician Ray Charles. They were married for over 20 years and had three children together. Despite the challenges in their marriage, Bea played an important role in Ray’s life.  

Bea’s early life was difficult because her father was absent. She was raised by her mother in Los Angeles and later moved to Richmond. She became interested in music when she joined her church choir, where she began to showcase her talent.  

After her divorce from Ray Charles, Bea chose to live a more private life. She focused on raising her children and stayed away from the media. She received a financial settlement from the divorce, which gave her stability. Bea’s life story shows how resilience and strength helped her overcome many challenges.

Profile Summary of Della Beatrice

CategoryDetails
Full NameDella Beatrice Howard Robinson
NicknameBea
Born1929
Place of BirthLos Angeles, California
SpouseRay Charles (Married in 1955, Divorced in 1977)
ChildrenRay Charles Robinson Jr., David Robinson, Robert Robinson
OccupationGospel Singer, Homemaker
Musical CareerMember of Cecil Shaw’s church choir, gospel music performer
ChallengesRay Charles’ drug addiction, infidelity, and difficult marriage
DivorceDivorced from Ray Charles in 1977
Net WorthEstimated to be $15 million (from divorce settlement)
LegacyKnown for her resilience, strength as a mother, and contributions to gospel music
Current LifeLives a private life, away from the media

Della Beatrice Early Life and Upbringing

Della Beatrice Early Life and Upbringing

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s childhood was not easy. Raised by her mother in Los Angeles, she did not have her father around, as he had remarried and moved far away. Bea was often reminded of the challenges in her life, but she became a resilient person because of them. 

Her mother supported her through tough times, and Bea learned to be independent from a young age. She spent most of her childhood in Richmond, California, where she attended school. Though she did not have a father figure in her life, Bea grew up with a sense of determination to succeed in whatever she chose to do.

Despite the difficult circumstances, Bea’s upbringing set the stage for her future in music. As a young girl, she loved to sing and became involved in the church choir. Her interest in music was sparked by her early exposure to gospel songs. Bea’s music journey began when she joined Cecil Shaw’s church choir, where she showcased her natural talent for singing.  

Della Beatrice A Journey into Music

Bea’s musical journey started in her early teens, when she became a member of a church choir. Music played an important role in her life, and she began to perform in front of audiences. Her soulful voice and love for gospel music made her a respected member of the community. 

Her choir performances, alongside her church bandmates, gave her the opportunity to showcase her talent in theaters and churches, helping to build a name for herself. Bea’s dedication to music was evident, and it became clear that she was on her way to making an impact in the music industry.

She recorded several songs, and her gospel music found an audience. Bea’s success in the music industry was remarkable, especially since she also had to care for her family at the same time. Her commitment to both music and family demonstrated the strength and resilience that would define her life.

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Della Beatrice Meeting Ray Charles

In the mid-1950s, Bea’s life took a major turn when she met the famous Ray Charles in Texas. Ray, already a rising star in the world of jazz and blues music, crossed paths with Bea in a hotel, and after several meetings, they began a romantic relationship. Their connection was immediate, and they soon decided to marry. 

On April 5, 1955, they were married in Dallas, Texas, beginning a long journey together. This marked a new chapter in Bea’s life, and she became closely associated with Ray Charles, a man who would leave a lasting legacy in the music world.

The early years of their marriage were filled with love and happiness, even though Ray Charles was still working hard to build his music career. The couple welcomed their first child, Ray Charles Robinson Jr., in May 1955, and soon after, they had two more children, David and Robert.  

Della Beatrice Marriage and Challenges

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson and Ray Charles’ marriage lasted for more than two decades. However, their relationship faced many challenges over the years. One of the biggest issues in their marriage was Ray’s drug addiction

His addiction to substance abuse caused a lot of tension between the couple, and it affected their relationship in many ways. Despite these struggles, Bea remained devoted to her family, trying her best to support Ray through his addiction. But Ray’s personal struggles were just one of the issues that caused problems in their marriage.

Another significant challenge in their marriage was Ray’s infidelity. Reports suggest that Ray fathered a total of twelve children with different women, which created tension in his relationship with Bea. These affairs added to the already growing difficulties in their marriage, and after many years of hardship, they finally divorced in 1977. 

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Della Beatrice Life After Divorce

After her divorce from Ray Charles, Bea chose to live a more private life. She didn’t seek out the spotlight, choosing instead to focus on her children and her own personal well-being. She was awarded a substantial financial settlement as part of the divorce, which provided her with financial stability

Although her life was once under intense public scrutiny, Bea became more reclusive after the divorce. She wanted to enjoy a quiet life away from the public eye, focusing on her family and personal happiness.

Though her time in the public eye was limited after the divorce, Bea’s net worth is estimated to be around $15 million, thanks to the financial settlement she received.Even though she had been married to one of the most famous musicians in the world, Bea chose to live out the rest of her life away from the media, leading a peaceful and private life with her children.

Ray Charles’ Legacy and Family

Ray Charles’ Legacy and Family

Ray Charles, the famous musician, left behind an unforgettable legacy in the world of jazz and blues music. He was known for his incredible talent and groundbreaking contributions to music. However, his personal life was much more complicated. 

Throughout his marriage to Bea, Ray had relationships with other women, resulting in the birth of several children. His family life was complex, with multiple children from different women. This added a layer of complexity to his already well-known and complicated personal life.

Despite these challenges, Ray Charles’ contributions to music are undeniable. He is remembered as a legend in the world of jazz and blues, and his influence on music continues to be felt today. Bea played a significant role in his life, but her own legacy is also important.  

Della Beatrice A Life of Resilience

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s life story is a true example of resilience. She faced many obstacles, from growing up without her father to dealing with the difficulties of being married to a famous musician with personal struggles. Yet through it all, Bea remained strong. She was a dedicated mother and a talented gospel artist. 

Her ability to overcome personal challenges while raising a family and pursuing her passion for music is an inspiring story of strength. Bea’s life, though marked by hardship, is ultimately a story of perseverance and dedication to her family and faith.

Through her music career and her marriage to Ray Charles, Bea made significant contributions to the world. Her ability to navigate difficult situations while staying true to her values and family is a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson?

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, also known as Bea, was the second wife of famous musician Ray Charles. She was a gospel singer and mother to his children.

How long were Ray Charles and Della Beatrice married?

Ray Charles and Della Beatrice were married for over 20 years, from 1955 until their divorce in 1977.

What challenges did Della face in her marriage?

Della faced many challenges in her marriage, including Ray Charles’ drug addiction and infidelity, which eventually led to their divorce.

How did Della Beatrice live after her divorce from Ray Charles?

After her divorce, Della chose to live a private life, focusing on her children and living peacefully away from the public eye.

What is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s legacy?

Della Beatrice is remembered for her resilience as a mother, gospel singer, and for her contributions to Ray Charles’ life and career.

Conclusion

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s life is a story of strength, resilience, and dedication. From her difficult early years to her marriage with Ray Charles, Bea overcame many obstacles. Even after their divorce, she focused on her family and continued to make a positive impact in her community. 

Her legacy as a devoted mother, gospel singer, and strong woman will not be forgotten. Despite the challenges she faced, Bea’s story is one of hope, proving that resilience can help anyone overcome even the toughest situations.

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