Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, also known as Bea, gained fame as the second wife of the legendary jazz and blues musician Ray Charles. Their marriage, which spanned over two decades, was marked by love, challenges, and eventual separation due to Charles’ infidelity and substance abuse issues.
Early Life and Background
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson was born in 1929 in Los Angeles, California. Growing up in the United States, Bea faced the absence of her father, who had married another woman in Houston. Raised primarily by her mother, she attended school in Richmond until the fourth grade. Despite these early challenges, Bea’s resilience and determination shaped her path in life.
Her early years were marked by a deep connection to music, which later defined her career. Bea’s upbringing in a Christian household played a significant role in her life, influencing her later career as a gospel singer.
Career Beginnings in Gospel Music
Bea’s journey in the music industry began modestly. She started as an unknown gospel artist, finding her place in Cecil Shaw’s church choir. Her talent soon became evident through live shows and radio appearances. Alongside her church bandmates, Bea performed at various theaters and churches, sharing her passion for gospel music with audiences far and wide.
Despite the demands of raising her children, Bea never lost sight of her musical aspirations. She balanced her family responsibilities with her love for singing, performing live and on the radio with her fellow choir members. Her dedication led to a recording deal, and she released several songs, with her face often gracing the covers of their CDs.
Personal Life and Marriage to Ray Charles
Bea’s life took a significant turn when she met the iconic Ray Charles in 1954. At the time, she was in her mid-20s and enjoying a blossoming career in gospel music. Their paths crossed in Texas, and a romantic relationship soon developed. They married on April 5, 1955, in a cluttered back room in Dallas, Texas.
The early years of their marriage were relatively smooth. Ray Charles had not yet achieved significant professional success and faced financial difficulties. Nevertheless, the couple welcomed their first child, Ray Charles Robinson Jr., in May 1955. Over the next three years, they had two more children, David Robinson and Robert Robinson.
Challenges and Separation
As Ray Charles’ career took off, the couple faced increasing challenges. Charles’ struggles with drug addiction and infidelity put a strain on their marriage. Despite their efforts to maintain their relationship, the pressures became too much to bear. In 1977, Bea decided to end their marriage, seeking a better life for herself and their children.
The separation marked a turning point in Bea’s life. Despite the challenges, she remained a devoted mother and continued to pursue her passion for gospel music. Her resilience in the face of adversity became a testament to her strength and determination.
Family and Legacy
Throughout their marriage, Ray Charles and Bea had three children: Ray Charles Robinson Jr., David Robinson, and Robert Robinson. Charles also had other children from different relationships, bringing the total to twelve. Despite the complexities of their family life, Bea remained a central figure in her children’s lives.
After their divorce, Bea maintained a low public profile, focusing on her family and personal well-being. Her former spouse, Ray Charles, continued to achieve tremendous success, amassing a considerable fortune. At the time of his passing in 2004, Charles had an estimated net worth of $75 million.
Net Worth and Current Life
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson is believed to have a net worth of $15 million, largely stemming from her divorce settlement. Despite her wealth, Bea has chosen to live a life away from the public eye. Her current whereabouts remain unknown, as she prefers to keep her personal life private.
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s life is a story of resilience and strength. From her early days in Los Angeles to her marriage with Ray Charles, Bea’s journey has been marked by significant challenges and triumphs. As a gospel singer, devoted mother, and former wife of an iconic musician, Bea’s legacy continues to inspire. Despite the difficulties she faced, Bea’s dedication to her family and music remains a testament to her enduring spirit.
