Information About Ray Charles' Wife

General
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I’m interested in learning more about Ray Charles’ wife. Who was she, and what role did she play in his life and career?

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Ray Charles was married twice. His most well-known wife was Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, whom he married in 1955. They were together for 22 years before divorcing in 1977. Della Beatrice, often called “Bea,” played a significant role in Ray’s life, especially during the peak of his career. She supported him through many challenges, including his struggles with drug addiction and the pressures of fame.

Before Della, Ray was briefly married to Eileen Williams from 1951 to 1952. However, it was his marriage to Della that had the most profound impact on his personal and professional life. They had three children together, and despite their eventual separation, Della remained an important figure in his life.

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Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, born in 1928 in Texas, was a gospel music group lead vocalist before marrying Ray Charles in 1955. Despite drug addiction and extramarital affairs, they remained married for 22 years, loving each other deeply.

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Ray Charles was married twice.

Eileen Williams: His first marriage was to Eileen Williams in 1951, but the couple divorced the following year. Limited public information is available about her.

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson: Ray Charles’ second and more notable marriage was to Della Beatrice Howard Robinson. They were married from 1955 to 1977.

  • A Pillar of Support: Della was a constant presence in Ray Charles’ life during his rise to fame. She managed their household and created a stable environment for their family.
  • Balancing Act: Managing the demands of a superstar husband while raising a family was challenging. Della played a vital role in maintaining a sense of normalcy in their lives.
  • Public Figure: Although not as publicly prominent as her husband, Della frequently accompanied him to events and performances, representing their family.
  • Divorce: Despite their long marriage, their relationship suffered due to Ray Charles’ well-documented infidelities, leading to their divorce in 1977.

Ray Charles also fathered several children outside of his marriages, reflecting the complexity and turbulence of his personal life.