Della Beatrice Howard Robinson is a figure whose life story unfolds with layers of resilience, talent, and the complexity of personal relationships. Born in 1929 in Los Angeles, California, her journey from a farm girl to a gospel singer, and then into the heart of the music legend Ray Charles, is a tale of overcoming adversity, embracing talent, and enduring love amidst challenges.
Table of Contents
Who is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson?
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, often overshadowed by her marriage to musical genius Ray Charles, is a personality in her own right. Born into a family where her parents were never married and her father departed early on, Della’s narrative is one of self-reliance and determination.
How Old is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson?
Born in 1929, Della’s life spans over nine decades, marking her as a witness to both profound personal and societal changes throughout the 20th and into the 21st century.
Early Life and Educational Background
Raised on an eighty-acre farm owned by her maternal family, Della’s early years were spent in the tranquility of the countryside, a stark contrast to her later life. Her education and upbringing on the farm prepared her for a life of perseverance.
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Career: From Waitressing to Gospel Singer
Della transitioned from waitressing to gospel singing, joining Cecil Shaw’s gospel group. Her powerful voice soon garnered attention, leading her to concerts, churches, and radio performances, culminating in recordings with the group.
Challenges with Her Mother
Moving to Houston introduced Della to a strained relationship with her mother, leading her to eventually move out and live with a cousin. This move marked the beginning of her independence and her career in gospel music.
Meeting Ray Charles
In 1954, Della’s life took a dramatic turn when she met Ray Charles. Their relationship, starting with skepticism and blossoming into marriage, brought both joy and challenges into Della’s life.
Marriage and Family
Della and Ray Charles’ marriage in 1955 brought three sons into the world. Despite the trials brought on by Charles’ infidelity and addiction, Della’s commitment to her family remained unwavering for 22 years.
Divorce
The marriage ended in 1976, with Della filing for divorce due to Charles’ continuous unfaithfulness and drug issues. However, their relationship retained a measure of cordiality, especially during Charles’ later health struggles.
Previous Marriages
Della’s life before Ray Charles included two marriages, both ending in divorce. Her first marriage was marked by abuse, driving her to flee to New York City for safety.
Current Status
Currently, Della resides in Riverside County, having chosen a life of privacy after her publicized marriage to Ray Charles. Her resilience and independence continue to define her as she lives a life away from the public eye.
Conclusion
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s story is one of strength, talent, and endurance. From her early days on a farm to her tumultuous marriage with Ray Charles, her life reflects the complexity of human experiences, underscored by a profound resilience.
FAQs about Della Beatrice Howard Robinson
- What was Della’s life like before meeting Ray Charles? Before meeting Ray Charles, Della lived a modest life, transitioning from farm life to gospel singing.
- How many children did Della and Ray Charles have? They had three sons: Ray Charles Jr., David, and Robert.
- What led to Della’s divorce from Ray Charles? The divorce was prompted by Charles’ infidelity and drug addiction.
- Did Della remarry after her divorce from Ray Charles? There is no public record of Della remarrying after her divorce from Ray Charles.
- How has Della Beatrice Howard Robinson chosen to live after her divorce? Della has chosen a private life, focusing on her personal well-being away from the public spotlight.
