Della Beatrice Howard Robinson gained fame as the second wife of legendary jazz and blues artist Ray Charles. Their marriage lasted over two decades before ending due to issues of unfaithfulness and substance abuse. Despite this, Della’s life is marked by her contributions to gospel music and her role as a devoted mother.
Early Life and Upbringing
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, affectionately known as Bea, was born in 1929 in Los Angeles, California. Raised primarily by her mother due to her father’s absence, Bea spent her childhood years in the United States. She attended school in Richmond until the fourth grade, where her early education helped shape her formative years.
Bea’s upbringing was not without challenges. The absence of her father, who had remarried in Houston, meant she relied heavily on her mother for support. Despite these difficulties, Bea’s early life laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors in music and family life.
A Journey into Music
Della’s journey in the music industry began as a relatively unknown gospel artist. She started showcasing her talent through live shows and radio appearances after becoming a member of Cecil Shaw’s church choir. Her performances, alongside her church bandmates, graced various theaters and churches, marking the start of her musical career.
Balancing her passion for gospel music with family responsibilities, Della managed to carve out time for her performances. Her dedication led to a recording deal and the release of multiple songs. These successes were significant, considering the time she also devoted to raising her children.
Meeting Ray Charles
In the mid-1950s, Bea’s life took a significant turn when she met Ray Charles in Texas. Their initial encounter happened in a hotel, and after a few more meetings, they began a romantic relationship. They tied the knot on April 5, 1955, in Dallas, Texas, marking the beginning of a long and eventful marriage.
The early years of their marriage were relatively smooth, despite Ray Charles’ financial struggles. The couple welcomed their first child, Ray Charles Robinson Jr., in May 1955, followed by two more children, David and Robert, over the next three years. These years were a blend of joy and challenges as Ray’s career began to take off.
Marriage and Challenges
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s marriage to Ray Charles spanned over two decades. Despite the initial harmony, their relationship faced significant challenges due to Ray’s drug addiction and infidelity. These issues ultimately led to their divorce in 1977. The strain on their marriage was further exacerbated by Ray’s demanding career and prolonged absences.
Ray Charles’ infidelity was a considerable factor in their marital breakdown. According to reports, Ray fathered a total of twelve children, with various women. This included Evelyn, born in 1949 to Louise Flowers, and Charles Wayne, born in 1959 to Margie Hendricks. These extramarital affairs and children added to the complexities of their relationship.
Life After Divorce
After her divorce from Ray Charles, Bea maintained a low public profile. Her primary focus remained on her children and personal life. The financial settlement from the divorce, which is believed to be substantial, provided her with financial stability. Bea’s net worth is estimated to be around $15 million, a testament to the settlement she received.
Despite the public attention during her marriage and subsequent divorce, Bea chose to lead a quieter life afterward. The media shifted its focus away from her, resulting in limited information about her current whereabouts and daily life. This privacy has allowed Bea to live a more secluded and peaceful life.
Ray Charles’ Legacy and Family
Ray Charles’ legacy in music is undeniable, and his personal life reflects a complex web of relationships. During his six-year marriage to Bea, Ray had a romantic relationship with Margie Hendricks, resulting in the birth of Charles Wayne in 1959. He also fathered children with other women, including Renee with Mae Mosley Lyles in 1961 and Sheila with Sandra Jean Betts in 1963.
Ray’s second daughter, Reatha, was born in 1966, followed by Alexandra in 1968 with Mary-Chantal Bertrand. In 1977, Vincent was born to Ray and Arlette Kotchounian. Ray’s extensive family reflects the complicated nature of his personal life, marked by multiple relationships and children from different women.
A Life of Resilience
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s life story is one of resilience and dedication. From her early days in Los Angeles to her journey in gospel music and her marriage to Ray Charles, Bea’s life has been full of challenges and triumphs. Her ability to navigate these complexities while maintaining her passion for music and dedication to her family is commendable.
Bea’s story is a reminder of the strength and resilience required to overcome personal and professional challenges. Her contributions to gospel music and her role as a mother highlight her multifaceted life. As she continues to live away from the public eye, her legacy remains intertwined with the life of the legendary Ray Charles.
