Who is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson? All About Ray Charles’ Wife

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson is widely known for her relationship with the legendary musician Ray Charles, though her life and story are far more than just her association with the famous musician. While Ray Charles’ fame often overshadowed the lives of those around him, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s story is one that is worth sharing. This article takes an in-depth look at who Della Beatrice Howard Robinson is, her background, her relationship with Ray Charles, and her life after their marriage.

Quick Bio

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Della Beatrice Howard Robinson
Date of Birth	1929 (Exact year unknown)
Age (As of 2022)	93 years
Height	5 feet 5 inches (165 cm)
Weight	76 kilograms (168 pounds)
Spouse	Ray Charles (married 1955, divorced 1977)
Children	Raymond Charles Jr., Sheila, and Evelyn
Occupation	Homemaker, mother, supportive wife
Net Worth	$15 million
Residence	Largely private life post-divorce
Famous For	Being the ex-wife of legendary musician Ray Charles
Legacy	Known for her strength, resilience, and role in Ray Charles’ life and career.
Public Life	Mostly private, with limited public appearances after her marriage to Ray Charles

Early Life And Education

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson was born in the 1929s, though the exact year of her birth remains somewhat unclear. Much of her early life remains private, as she kept a relatively low profile before her relationship with Ray Charles began to gain public attention. From what is known, Della grew up in the South during a time when racial segregation and inequality were rampant, and these circumstances likely shaped her perspective on life and relationships.

Della was educated and well-spoken, and there are reports indicating that she was deeply committed to both her family and her community. While specific details about her formal education remain sparse, it is clear that she was an intelligent and grounded woman, focused on family and stability.

Age, Height And Weight

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, born in 1929, is 93 years old as of 2022. Standing at 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) and weighing 76 kilograms (168 pounds), she has led a private life marked by strength and grace. Despite her marriage to the famous Ray Charles, Della has always kept much of her personal life out of the public eye, focusing on raising her family and maintaining a quiet dignity. Her life reflects both the challenges of being married to a public figure and her commitment to her family.

Family And Siblings

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson was born into a family that, like many African American families in the South at the time, faced significant challenges. While not much is known about her family background, Della has spoken in the past about the importance of family and community in her life.

Della and Ray Charles had three children together: Raymond Charles Jr., and two daughters, Sheila and Evelyn. Ray Charles also had children from other relationships, but Della’s children were an integral part of her life, and she worked hard to maintain a sense of normalcy for them, despite the fame and challenges that surrounded their family.

Though Della’s extended family has largely stayed out of the public eye, she clearly placed great value on family, which helped her weather the many personal and professional storms she encountered throughout her life.

Career Highlights

Before marrying Ray Charles, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson worked various jobs, though she was never particularly focused on building a career for herself in the public spotlight. After her marriage to Charles, Della chose to prioritize her family and children, which meant that her professional life took a backseat to her role as a supportive wife and mother.

Her life with Ray Charles was centered around his musical career, and much of her identity became intertwined with his rise to fame. While Della didn’t have a career in the traditional sense, her role in supporting Ray’s success and keeping their family together was integral to his ability to focus on his work.

After their divorce, Della largely stayed out of the public eye, choosing to focus on her personal life and her family. She did not pursue fame or public attention, opting instead to lead a quieter, more private life.

How Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Met Ray Charles

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson met Ray Charles in the 1950s, a time when Charles was beginning to gain recognition for his unique blend of jazz, blues, and gospel music. At the time, Ray Charles was an up-and-coming musician still dealing with personal struggles, including addiction and a complicated romantic life. Despite these challenges, Della was drawn to him, and they began a relationship that would change both of their lives forever.

Their initial meeting was likely sparked by their shared connection in the music world, with Della being a fan of Ray’s work. However, as their relationship deepened, Della became an important part of Ray’s life and career. In 1955, the two married, and they remained together for over two decades, through both the highs and lows of Ray’s career and personal life.

Who is Ray Charles?

Ray Charles was born on September 23, 1930, in Albany, Georgia. Widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, Ray Charles blended various genres, including jazz, blues, gospel, and country, to create a sound that was uniquely his own. His powerful voice and innovative music made him a pioneering figure in the music world.

Charles was not only known for his musical talent but also for his resilience and determination. Despite losing his sight at a young age, he went on to become one of the most successful musicians of his time. Throughout his life, Ray faced many personal struggles, including battles with addiction and a tumultuous personal life, particularly with women. Nonetheless, his legacy in the world of music remains unparalleled.

Her Relationship with Ray Charles

Della and Ray Charles’ relationship was complex and filled with both love and struggle. In the early years, their bond seemed strong, and Della was often by Ray’s side as he navigated his growing fame. However, as Ray’s addiction to drugs became more severe, the relationship began to experience significant strain.

Despite these challenges, Della stood by Ray for many years. She was often seen as the stabilizing force in his life, supporting him through his addiction and tumultuous career. Ray’s numerous infidelities and his struggles with substance abuse undoubtedly took a toll on their marriage, but Della remained committed to him for a long time.

Though the couple faced many personal challenges, Della and Ray’s bond was not purely defined by his career. Della had her own sense of identity and strength, and even though her life was deeply entwined with Ray’s, she also made sure to maintain her own sense of autonomy.

Marriage to Ray Charles

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson and Ray Charles were married in 1955, and their marriage lasted for over two decades. Their relationship was not without its challenges, primarily due to Ray’s ongoing struggles with addiction, infidelity, and his hectic schedule as a touring musician.

Despite their troubles, Della remained dedicated to her family and supported Ray’s career. However, as the years passed, the strain on their relationship became too great. Their marriage ultimately ended in divorce in 1977, after 22 years of marriage.

Though their marriage ended, Della and Ray remained on good terms, especially when it came to co-parenting their children. Della’s role in Ray’s life was a significant one, and even after their divorce, she continued to have a respectful relationship with him.

Personal Life And Legacy

After her divorce from Ray Charles, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson largely stepped away from the public eye. She has lived a quiet life, focusing on her family and personal interests. Her legacy, however, is tied to her role in Ray Charles’ life and career. While Ray’s fame often overshadowed her own, Della’s strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her family remain an important part of her story.

In interviews, Della has expressed how much she valued her privacy after her divorce. She focused on her children and rebuilding her life, away from the media spotlight that had often defined her public persona during her marriage to Ray.

Net Worth And Financial Insights

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson has an estimated net worth of $15 million. While much of her life has been private, her wealth is likely attributed to her marriage to the legendary Ray Charles, as well as the financial settlements that followed their divorce. Though she stepped away from the public spotlight after their split, her financial standing reflects her ability to maintain a comfortable lifestyle and secure her future.

Personal Interests And Hobbies

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson has rarely shared details about her personal hobbies or interests with the public. However, given her role as a mother and her years spent raising children while navigating a tumultuous marriage, it’s clear that her family was a central aspect of her life. Her love for her children and commitment to her family likely filled much of her personal time.

Though Della has avoided the spotlight, her ability to maintain a stable home environment for her children in the face of adversity speaks to her inner strength and dedication.

Future Plans And Projects

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson has largely remained out of the public eye in recent years. She has not publicly announced any specific future plans or projects. After the end of her marriage to Ray Charles, Della has kept a low profile, focusing on her family and private life.

It’s possible that Della continues to stay active in her community, though she has kept her personal life largely out of the public sphere. The legacy of her life, both as a wife to a legendary musician and as a mother and individual, is likely to continue to influence those who know her personally.

Conclusion

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s life story is one of resilience, strength, and quiet dignity. Though her marriage to Ray Charles made her a part of one of the most famous couples in music history, she also lived a life marked by her own struggles and triumphs. While much of her life remains private, the impact she had on Ray’s life and the legacy she leaves behind as a mother and woman of strength is undeniable.

FAQs

1. How did Della Beatrice Howard Robinson meet Ray Charles?
Della met Ray Charles in the 1950s, when he was an up-and-coming musician. Their connection grew, and they eventually married in 1955.

2. How many children did Della and Ray Charles have?
Della and Ray Charles had three children together: Raymond Charles Jr., Sheila, and Evelyn.

3. Why did Della Beatrice Howard Robinson and Ray Charles divorce?
Their divorce in 1977 was the result of Ray’s infidelity, drug addiction, and the strain these issues placed on their relationship.

4. What is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s current life like?
Della has largely stayed out of the public eye after her divorce from Ray Charles. She focused on raising her children and maintaining a private life.

5. What was Della’s role in Ray Charles’ life?
Della played a supportive role in Ray’s life, especially in terms of raising their children and helping him navigate his career and personal struggles.

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