Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, Ray Charles’s ex-wife, had a thriving gospel career before their 22-year marriage. Their union faced challenges due to Ray’s infidelity and addiction, leading to their 1977 divorce. Afterward, she withdrew from the public eye, focusing on raising their children. Today, she maintains a private life. This article explores her early years, career, struggles, and financial status, shedding light on the woman who stood by Ray Charles during his most successful yet turbulent times.

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s Early Life & Background

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson was born in 1929 in Los Angeles, California. Raised by a single mother, she spent much of her childhood on an eighty-acre farm owned by her maternal family. Her upbringing instilled a deep sense of independence and resilience. She had a limited formal education, attending school in Richmond until the fourth grade. Despite facing challenges, she found solace in music, developing a deep passion for gospel singing, a talent that later defined her early career.

Career In Singing

Della Beatrice began her career as a gospel singer in Cecil Shaw’s church choir, where her powerful voice quickly gained recognition. She performed on the radio and in live settings, securing recording deals. Her contributions to gospel music included appearances on albums, with her image even featured on some covers. However, after marrying Ray Charles, she chose to leave her music career behind, focusing instead on her family life.

Previous Marriages Of Della Beatrice

Before her marriage to Ray Charles, Della had experienced two previous marriages.. Her first marriage was reportedly abusive, which led her to move to New York City for safety. However, she has never publicly disclosed details about her former spouses.

How Della Met Ray Charles?

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson and Ray Charles first met in Houston, Texas, in 1954. At the time, she was in her mid-20s and thriving in her gospel music career. Their initial meeting was brief, but fate kept bringing them together. Soon, they developed a relationship, and on April 5, 1955, they tied the knot in an unconventional setting. Ray affectionately called her “Bea.”

Marriage To Ray Charles

Della and Ray Charles were married for 22 years, making their union the longest-lasting among Ray’s relationships. Despite the challenges of being married to a world-famous musician, Della remained committed to their family. The couple had three sons together:

Ray Charles Robinson Jr. (born May 25, 1955), David Robinson (born 1958), and Robert Robinson (born 1960). Due to Ray Charles’s demanding music career, Della took on the primary responsibility of raising their children in View Park, California. She played a significant role in maintaining a stable home environment, even as Ray’s fame and lifestyle presented difficulties.

Challenges In Their Marriage

Despite their deep connection, Della and Ray’s marriage faced numerous obstacles, primarily due to Ray’s struggles with drug addiction and infidelity. Reports indicate that Ray Charles had affairs with multiple women during their marriage. His heroin addiction and repeated extramarital relationships put immense strain on their relationship.

Reason For Divorce

After enduring years of heartbreak, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson filed for divorce in 1976, and the separation was finalized in 1977. The primary reasons for their split were Ray’s substance abuse and numerous affairs. While Della remained devoted to her family, Ray’s lifestyle ultimately made it impossible for the marriage to continue.

Ray Charles’s Extramarital Affairs & Children

Ray Charles had twelve children with ten different women. Besides his three sons with Della, some of his other children include Evelyn Robinson, Charles Wayne Hendricks, Sheila Raye Charles, Alexandra Bertrand, and Renee Robinson.

Is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Alive?

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson has maintained an extremely low profile since her divorce. She is believed to reside in Riverside County, California, enjoying her time with her children and grandchildren. As of 2024, there have been no reports of her passing, suggesting that she is still alive at the age of 95.

Life After Divorce

After separating from Ray Charles, Della chose to step away from the public eye. She dedicated her life to raising her three sons and providing them with a sense of stability. Unlike Ray, who remained in the limelight until his passing, Della embraced a private lifestyle.

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Net Worth

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s estimated net worth is $15 million. The majority of her wealth stems from her divorce settlement with Ray Charles. At the time of his death, Ray had a net worth of $75 million, accumulated through his successful music career, endorsements, and investments. While Della stepped away from the limelight, her financial settlement ensured she could lead a comfortable life.

Conclusion

Della’s life has been a testament to strength, resilience, and grace. From her humble beginnings as a gospel singer to her marriage with Ray Charles and later as a devoted mother, she has navigated fame and personal struggles with dignity. While she may be best known as the ex-wife of a legendary musician, her commitment to her family and her ability to overcome challenges define her true legacy.