Della Beatrice Howard Robinson: The Life and Legacy of Ray Charles’s Pillar of Support
Who Is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson may not be widely recognized, but she holds a significant place in American history due to her association with the renowned musician Nat King Cole. Born into a humble background, Della’s life is marked by her dedication, perseverance, and deep commitment to her family and community. She represents a beacon of inspiration for those who aspire to leave their mark on the world.
This article will provide a comprehensive look into Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s life and legacy. We will cover her early life, family dynamics, and her contributions to society. Additionally, we will address common questions about her life to highlight lesser-known aspects of her story. Through this examination, we aim to pay tribute to her enduring impact and the positive influence she had on those around her.
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s story is not just one of personal challenges and successes, but also mirrors the broader social changes of her era. As we explore her biography, we invite you to celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who, against the odds, established a legacy that continues to resonate today.
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Biography
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson was born on July 1, 1911, in Montgomery, Alabama, amid the struggles faced by the African American community during the Jim Crow era. Raised in a family deeply connected to Southern traditions, Della grew up with a strong emphasis on community and family values. Her journey eventually led her to Chicago, where she met and married the renowned jazz pianist and vocalist Nat King Cole.
Throughout her life, Della encountered various hardships, including economic difficulties and the societal challenges of being a Black woman in America. Despite these obstacles, she remained a steadfast supporter of her family, providing crucial encouragement and support to Nat King Cole as he achieved fame.
Wiki Della Beatrice Howard Robinson
| Full name | Della Beatrice Howard Robinson |
| Nickname | Bea |
| Gender | Female |
| Year of birth | 1929 |
| Age | 95 years old (as of 2024) |
| Place of birth | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Current residence | United States of America |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Height in feet | 5’5″ |
| Height in centimetres | 165 |
| Weight in pounds | 168 |
| Weight in kilograms | 76 |
| Hair colour | Black |
| Eye colour | Dark brown |
| Marital status | Divorced |
| Ex-husband | Ray Charles |
| Children | 3 |
| Profession | Singer |
| Net worth | $15 million |
Early Years and Background
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, affectionately known as “Bea,” was born in Los Angeles, California, in 1929. Despite leading a largely private life, her connection with the renowned musician Ray Charles brought her into the spotlight.
Details about her early years are somewhat limited, particularly regarding her educational background and family history. It is known that Bea was raised predominantly by her mother following the separation of her parents, who were never married. The separation occurred shortly after her birth, leaving her mother as the primary caregiver. Despite the challenges of her early life, Bea’s resilience and strength were evident, qualities that would shape her role in later years.
Marriage to Ray Charles
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson crossed paths with Ray Charles in the early 1950s, a period when she was passionately involved in gospel music. As a talented gospel singer, she performed extensively both live and on the radio and had also secured a recording contract with her band.
Their relationship developed rapidly, culminating in marriage in 1955. Their union, characterized by mutual affection and shared musical interests, resulted in the birth of three children: Ray Charles Jr., David, and Robert. While her life was intricately connected to Charles’s illustrious music career, Della managed to maintain her own distinct identity and life apart from their shared public endeavors.
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Career
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson and Nat King Cole shared a relationship marked by deep mutual respect and support. Della was a cornerstone of Nat’s success, shouldering the responsibility for their home life while he dedicated himself to his music career. Her steadfast support enabled him to concentrate on his artistic pursuits, contributing significantly to his acclaim as one of the foremost jazz musicians of his era.
In addition to her role in Nat’s career, Della played a key part in maintaining stability within their family, which was often impacted by Nat’s busy schedule. She focused on providing their three daughters with a quality education and instilling in them strong values. Della’s dedication to both her family and her husband’s career created a nurturing environment that was essential for Nat’s artistic achievements.
Life after Ray Charles
The union between Della Beatrice Howard Robinson and Nat King Cole endured for 22 years before they chose to end their marriage in 1977. Their separation was largely attributed to Charles’s ongoing issues with substance abuse and his involvement in extramarital affairs.
Who is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s husband?
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, known as Bea, married the renowned jazz musician Ray Charles after meeting him in Texas in 1954. At the time, Bea was in her mid-20s and had established herself in the gospel music scene. Their initial encounter took place in a hotel, and following several meetings, their relationship blossomed. They were wed on April 5, 1955, in a modest, cluttered room in Dallas, Texas.
In the early years of their marriage, they faced relatively few issues. Although Ray Charles’s career had yet to gain significant momentum and they were experiencing financial difficulties, their family grew with the birth of their first child, Ray Charles Robinson Jr., in May 1955.
What Were the Personal Interests of Della Beatrice Howard Robinson?
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson was more than just a supportive spouse and mother; she had her own distinct interests and passions. Actively engaged in her community, Della took great pride in her role as a homemaker, often hosting events and gatherings that fostered a sense of unity among friends and neighbors. Her culinary skills were well-regarded, and she was known for preparing and sharing her delectable Southern cuisine with those close to her.
Beyond her love for cooking, Della harbored a deep appreciation for music. While she did not pursue a professional music career like her husband, she remained a devoted music enthusiast. She frequently attended performances, showing support for Nat and his colleagues in the music industry.
Did Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Contribute to Society?
Following the passing of Nat King Cole, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson dedicated herself to meaningful community work and advocacy for civil rights. In her later years, she became actively involved in various organizations aimed at improving the lives of African Americans and advancing social justice.
Della’s commitment to societal betterment was reflected in her support for educational programs and healthcare services for underprivileged communities. Her efforts in these areas had a profound and lasting impact, inspiring others to engage in similar acts of service and contributing to the broader movement for equality and community empowerment.
What is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s net worth?
According to various sources, including News Now Nigeria and Popular Net Worth, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s estimated net worth is approximately $15 million. This wealth was largely attributed to the financial settlement she received from her divorce with Ray Charles. At the time of his passing in 2004, the renowned musician’s net worth was reported to be around $75 million, as noted by Celebrity Net Worth.
FAQs
1. Who is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson? Della Beatrice Howard Robinson was the former wife of legendary jazz musician Ray Charles. Born on July 1, 1911, in Montgomery, Alabama, she played a significant role in supporting Charles’s career while also contributing to her community through various activities.
2. What was Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s role in Ray Charles’s life? Della Beatrice Howard Robinson was a crucial support system for Ray Charles. She managed their household, supported his career, and helped create a stable environment for their family, allowing Charles to focus on his music.
3. How did Della Beatrice Howard Robinson contribute to society? After Ray Charles’s death, Della became actively involved in community service and civil rights advocacy. She supported educational initiatives and healthcare access for underserved populations, leaving a lasting impact on her community.
4. What was the reason for Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s divorce from Ray Charles? Della and Ray Charles divorced in 1977 after 22 years of marriage. The divorce was influenced by Charles’s struggles with drug addiction and his involvement in extramarital affairs.
5. What was Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s estimated net worth? Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s estimated net worth is approximately $15 million, primarily derived from her divorce settlement with Ray Charles. Charles’s net worth at the time of his death was reported to be around $75 million.
Conclusion
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s life story is a testament to resilience, support, and community involvement. Despite facing numerous personal and professional challenges, she remained a steadfast supporter of Ray Charles’s career and made significant contributions to society. Her legacy extends beyond her marriage, reflecting her dedication to social justice and community empowerment. Through her active participation in civil rights and local initiatives, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s impact continues to inspire and resonate, highlighting her role as both a supportive partner and a committed advocate for positive change.
Read More: US Wire Magazine
