Della Beatrice Howard Robinson: A Life of Resilience, Faith & Quiet Influence
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, affectionately known as Bea, was born in 1929 in Los Angeles, California, and raised in challenging yet formative circumstances. Though her parents never married, Della spent her early years in Richmond with her maternal grandmother on a small farm. The family’s self-sufficiency—growing crops, keeping livestock, and building their own church—instilled in her a deep sense of faith, resourcefulness, and humility.
Early Life & Gospel Roots
- Childhood: Moved to Houston at age 10 to live with her mother, enduring family tensions but persevering.
- Musical Calling: By age 16, Della was performing with Cecil Shaw’s gospel choir, singing on stage and radio, and even signing a recording contract.
Love & Family with Ray Charles
- Meeting Ray Charles: Their paths crossed in Texas around 1954, united by mutual musical passion.
- Marriage & Motherhood: They married in a modest Dallas hotel room on April 5, 1955. Within weeks, their son Ray Charles Jr. was born, followed by two more sons: David and Robert.
- Support Through Turbulence: Over 22 years, Della stood by Ray through his rise to fame and struggles with heroin addiction and infidelity—maintaining their home and shielding their children.
Divorce & Quiet Redemption
- End of Marriage: The toll of addiction and repeated affairs led to their divorce in 1977.
- Private Life: Post-divorce, Della retreated from public life, focusing on her faith, children, and a return to gospel music.
Net Worth & Legacy
- Estimated Net Worth: Around $15 million, largely from divorce settlement—against Ray Charles’ $75 million at his death.
- Legacy: More than “just Ray Charles’ ex” — Della’s enduring imprint lies in her gospel roots, dedication to family, and strength in adversity.
Summary
| Aspect | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Birth & Upbringing | Born in 1929; raised in LA and then Houston with spiritual, agrarian grounding |
| Music Career | Gospel singer in Cecil Shaw’s choir; recorded and toured on radio and stage |
| Marriage & Family | Married Ray Charles (1955); mother to three sons during his turbulent fame |
| Challenges & Support | Remained steadfast despite his addiction and infidelity struggles |
| Post-Divorce Life | Embraced private living, devout faith, and raising her children |
| Legacy | A story of resilience, faith, and love in the backdrop of a music icon’s life |
In Closing
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s life story transcends her role beside a music legend. She embodies quiet strength, remained true to her faith, uplifted her family during fame’s storm, and held firm through personal trials. As she continues her life away from the spotlight, her legacy of courage and integrity remains a testament to her character.
