Della Beatrice Howard Robinson stands as a significant figure in the American music landscape, often overshadowed by her famous husband, Ray Charles. Most recognize Ray as a music legend and a pioneer in blending gospel music, jazz, and blues.
Della’s own contributions have also made a lasting impact. This blog post aims to unveil her story and highlight her role as more than just Ray Charles’ ex-wife; she is a woman of strength and resilience whose legacy deserves recognition.
Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Della Beatrice Howard Robinson |
| Date of Birth | July 29, 1935 |
| Place of Birth | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Occupation | Gospel Singer, Musician |
| Spouse | Ray Charles (Married 1955, Divorced 1977) |
| Children | Ray Jr. (1955), David (1958), Robert (1960) |
| Net Worth | Estimated around $2 million |
| Musical Genre | Gospel, Rhythm and Blues |
| Influences | Ray Charles, Gospel Music |
| Legacy | Significant impact on gospel music and community service |
| Current Whereabouts | Living a private life, focused on advocacy and community work |
Who is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson
Picture Los Angeles in the late 1920s – a city buzzing with gospel music and cultural change. This was the world that welcomed Della Beatrice Howard. Raised by a single mother (her parents separated shortly after her birth), young Della found her voice in the church, where gospel music became her sanctuary.
Her early life wasn’t easy, but it shaped her into someone special. Despite only completing education until the fourth grade in Richmond, she never let that limit her dreams. Instead, she poured her heart into music, finding her place in Cecil Shaw’s church choir, where her talent truly began to shine.
Career Highlights
Before becoming Ray Charles’ wife, Della had carved out her own niche in the gospel music world. Her powerful voice rang through Cecil Shaw’s church choir, where she wasn’t just another singer – she was a standout performer. She did live shows, radio appearances, and even recorded several songs, with her face gracing CD covers.
Let me paint you a picture of her typical day back then: morning rehearsals with the choir, afternoon recordings, and evening performances. She wasn’t just performing; she was living and breathing gospel music. Her dedication to her craft earned her respect in the music industry long before she met Ray.
Marriage to Ray Charles
Their story began in Houston, Texas, in 1954, like something straight out of a classic romance. Della met Ray Charles, already a rising jazz artist, in a hotel – a chance encounter that would change both their lives forever. What struck people about their relationship was how their musical backgrounds complemented each other: her gospel influence meeting his innovative blend of jazz and blues.
They tied the knot on April 5, 1955, starting a 22-year journey together that would shape American music history. During their marriage, Della played multiple roles: wife, mother, supporter, and sometimes even musical collaborator. She understood the demanding nature of the music industry because she’d experienced it herself.
Children and Family
The couple welcomed three sons into their world: Ray Charles Jr., David, and Robert. Raising children while married to a music legend wasn’t easy. While Ray toured the country, revolutionizing American music, Della created a stable home environment for their boys. She managed to balance her own love for gospel music with the demands of motherhood.
Here’s how their family grew:
| Child | Birth Order | Year |
| Ray Jr. | First | 1955 |
| David | Second | 1958 |
| Robert | Third | 1960 |
Divorce and Aftermath
By 1977, various challenges had strained their marriage. Ray’s struggles with addiction and reported infidelities led Della to file for divorce. However, what’s remarkable is how she handled this public separation. Unlike many celebrity divorces, she maintained her dignity and privacy, focusing on raising her sons rather than seeking publicity.
After the divorce, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson chose a quieter life away from the spotlight. She focused on her family and personal growth, proving that sometimes the strongest statement is made in silence.
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Net Worth & Financial Status
The divorce settlement left Della with an estimated net worth of $15 million, reflecting her significant role in Ray’s success. This financial security came from the settlement when Ray Charles’ own net worth was approximately $75 million. She managed these assets wisely, ensuring long-term stability for herself and her children.
Sources of Income for Della Beatrice Howard Robinson
- Music Career: Income from her work as a gospel artist and potential collaborations in the music industry.
- Divorce Settlement: Financial support received after her divorce from Ray Charles, providing significant financial stability.
- Public Appearances: Earnings from speaking engagements and appearances related to her experiences with Ray Charles.
- Community Programs: Potential funding or sponsorships from her involvement in educational empowerment and community service initiatives.
- Investments: Income generated from personal investments over the years.
- Royalties: Earnings from royalties related to music associated with Ray Charles or her own works.
Legacy and Impact
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s legacy extends beyond her marriage to Ray Charles. She is a historical figure who represented the challenges and triumphs of African American women in the music industry.
Her commitment to educational empowerment and community service remains significant. Della’s work laid the groundwork for future generations of artists and activists, emphasizing the importance of using one’s voice for social change.
Her influence in the music industry is a testament to the power of gospel music in shaping American culture. By uplifting her community and advocating for social justice, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson exemplified the qualities of a true leader.
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Conclusion
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson is a remarkable woman whose contributions have been often overlooked. As Ray Charles’ wife, she played a vital role in his life and music career, but her impact stretches far beyond their marriage.
Della’s commitment to her family, her involvement in gospel music, and her dedication to social justice highlight her as an essential figure in American history. Her legacy deserves recognition, and it is essential to celebrate her contributions to both music and society.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson still alive?
As of 2024, she is 95 years old and living a private life away from the public eye.
What happened to Ray Charles’ first wife?
Eileen Williams was Ray’s first wife. Their marriage lasted less than a year (1951-1952), ending in divorce before he met Della.
How many wives did Ray Charles have?
Ray Charles had two wives during his lifetime: Eileen Williams and Della Beatrice Howard Robinson.
What is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is $15 million, primarily from her divorce settlement with Ray Charles.
Are there pictures of Della Beatrice Howard Robinson available?
While historical photos exist from her time with Ray Charles, recent photographs are rare due to her choice to maintain privacy since the divorce.
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James Charles is a skilled writer at **Timesrenewal.com**, where he specializes in celebrity-related content. He covers topics like net worth, age, homes, and more, offering readers well-researched insights into the lives of famous personalities. With a background in journalism, James has a talent for making celebrity stories engaging and informative, earning him a dedicated audience. His work combines entertainment with factual detail, making him a trusted voice in celebrity journalism.
