Susan Dee Robbins may not be a household name, but her story is deeply connected to one of classic Hollywood’s beloved stars, Dale Robertson. Known for his roles in westerns and war films during the 1950s and 1960s, Robertson captivated audiences with his rugged charm. Behind the scenes, however, stood Susan — a woman who chose a quiet life far from the glitz of fame, yet remained a powerful and loving presence in his world.
From her humble beginnings to her 33-year marriage with a legendary actor, Susan’s life has intrigued fans curious about the woman who stood beside Dale until his final days. This article explores her background, their love story, life away from Hollywood, and the legacy she helped support behind the scenes.
Let’s take a closer look at who Susan Dee Robbins really is.
Quick Bio Information
Full Name: Susan Dee Robbins
Also Known As: Susan Robertson
Date Of Birth: 1954
Age (As Of 2025): 71 Years Old
Place Of Birth: California, United States
Nationality: American
Ethnicity: White Caucasian
Hair Color: Blonde
Eye Color: Blue
Marital Status: Widowed (married to Dale Robertson until his death in 2013)
Known For: Being the fourth wife of actor Dale Robertson
Early Life And Background In California
Born in 1954 in California, Susan Dee Robbins grew up far removed from the world of fame and Hollywood. Little is publicly known about her family or childhood, which aligns with the low-profile lifestyle she maintained even after marrying a prominent actor. This privacy, however, only adds to the intrigue surrounding her. From an early age, Susan was said to be practical, independent, and grounded — qualities that would later shape her role as the steady partner in Dale Robertson’s later life.
While not born into the entertainment world, her path would eventually cross with stardom in an unexpected way. Still, Susan never seemed interested in celebrity. Instead, she was drawn to simplicity, commitment, and companionship — things that would define her marriage and life choices.
A Career Among The Clouds
Before marrying Dale Robertson, Susan had a career that many dream of — working as a flight attendant for American Airlines. This job offered her the opportunity to travel, meet people, and enjoy a sense of adventure. Flight attendants during her era were known for their grace, professionalism, and ability to connect with people — all qualities that likely caught Dale’s attention later on.
Susan’s career choice reflected her sense of independence and professionalism. However, once her life with Dale began, she chose to leave her job and fully commit to their shared life together. It was a decision that showed her willingness to embrace love and loyalty over public ambition.
How Susan Met Dale Robertson
The meeting between Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson wasn’t scripted in Hollywood — it happened on a real flight. Susan was working for American Airlines when Dale happened to be on board. There was a spark, a quiet connection between the two, and from there, their relationship blossomed.
Unlike many Hollywood couples whose beginnings are filled with flash and media, Susan and Dale’s love story started modestly. It’s this simplicity that made their bond special and long-lasting. They dated privately and thoughtfully before deciding to take the next step in their relationship.
A Private Wedding And New Life Together
On February 2, 1980, Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson were married in a quiet ceremony attended by only close friends and family. Unlike other celebrity weddings that dominate headlines, theirs was intentionally kept intimate and low-key.
After the wedding, they settled down at Dale’s ranch in Yukon, Oklahoma. This ranch would become their home for over three decades. Instead of red carpets and flashing cameras, Susan chose a life filled with nature, horses, and shared routines — a clear reflection of her grounded personality.
Their marriage was built on mutual respect, love, and the shared joy of living a simple yet meaningful life together.
Living On The Ranch: A Peaceful Escape
One of the most distinctive aspects of Susan’s life with Dale Robertson was their peaceful existence on a sprawling ranch in Oklahoma. Far from the chaos of Hollywood, their home became a sanctuary — a place where they raised horses and enjoyed the slow rhythm of country living.
Dale was deeply involved in horse breeding, once owning more than 200 horses. He often credited the ranch and Susan’s calming presence as the key to his happiness in retirement. Together, they bred champion horses, cared for the land, and found joy in ordinary days.
For Susan, the ranch offered privacy and purpose. While Dale had fans around the world, she preferred to stay behind the scenes, offering emotional support and stability in his everyday life.
A Marriage That Lasted Through The Decades
In an industry where celebrity marriages are often short-lived, Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson’s union stood out. Their marriage lasted for 33 years, from 1980 until Dale’s death in 2013 — a testament to their deep connection and compatibility.
Susan remained by his side through everything, including the ups and downs of health and aging. Friends and those close to the couple often described her as loyal, devoted, and quietly strong. Their long-lasting bond showed that love can thrive even under the spotlight — or just beyond it.
The Age Gap And Its Role In Their Relationship
Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson shared a significant age gap of 23 years. Dale was born in 1923, while Susan was born in 1954. Despite the difference, it did not seem to affect their relationship. In fact, it may have contributed to the balance in their dynamic.
Susan brought a calm, youthful energy to Dale’s life during his retirement years, while Dale offered wisdom and a strong sense of purpose. Their mutual understanding and shared values helped them create a relationship that was both lasting and loving.
They were proof that age doesn’t matter when two people genuinely connect and respect each other’s lives and goals.
Susan’s Role As Stepmother
Although Susan and Dale Robertson did not have children together, Susan became stepmother to his two daughters from previous relationships — Rochelle Robertson and Rebel Lee. Rochelle was born from Dale’s first marriage to Frederica Jacqueline Wilson. The mother of Rebel Lee is not publicly known.
Susan embraced her role in the family with care and compassion. While she remained private, those who knew the family spoke of her kindness and how she supported Dale’s relationships with his children. Additionally, Dale had a granddaughter, Jade Robertson-Fusco, who was the daughter of Rochelle.
Susan’s presence added unity and warmth to the family — even if she never sought attention for it.
Dale Robertson’s Final Years
In the final years of Dale Robertson’s life, Susan became his greatest source of comfort and care. As his health began to decline, the couple moved from Oklahoma to San Diego, California, in search of better medical support.
Dale died on February 27, 2013, at the age of 89, from complications related to lung cancer and pneumonia. He passed away at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, California.
Susan stayed with him throughout the journey, offering strength and love during one of life’s hardest moments. Her commitment during those final years reflects the quiet heroism behind so many spouses who care deeply for their partners.
Life After Loss: Susan Today
Since Dale Robertson’s death, Susan Dee Robbins has chosen to live completely out of the public eye. She has not given interviews or made any public appearances, and her presence on social media is nonexistent.
There have been no reports of her remarrying or returning to public life. Today, she appears to be living privately, honoring the memory of her late husband while preserving the peace they both valued. Her story is not one of fame, but of deep commitment and quiet resilience.
Her decision to stay private adds to the respect many feel for her. She continues to be remembered as the woman who shared three decades of unwavering love with one of Hollywood’s classic stars.
Final Thoughts
Susan Dee Robbins may not have sought the spotlight, but her story is one of lasting love, quiet dignity, and emotional strength. Her journey from flight attendant to devoted wife of a Hollywood icon is both heartwarming and inspiring. In a world that often celebrates fame and flash, Susan’s life reminds us of the beauty in loyalty, privacy, and staying true to oneself.
Her legacy lives not through red carpets or movie screens, but in the quiet moments she shared with Dale Robertson on a peaceful ranch, far from the noise of the outside world.
FAQs About Susan Dee Robbins
Who Is Susan Dee Robbins?
Susan Dee Robbins is the fourth and final wife of late Hollywood actor Dale Robertson. She was married to him from 1980 until his death in 2013.
How Did Susan Dee Robbins Meet Dale Robertson?
She met him while working as a flight attendant for American Airlines. He was a passenger on one of her flights, and their connection grew from there.
Did Susan Dee Robbins And Dale Robertson Have Children Together?
No, the couple did not have biological children together. However, Susan became a stepmother to Dale’s daughters, Rochelle and Rebel.
How Long Were Susan And Dale Married?
Susan and Dale were married for 33 years, from 1980 until Dale’s passing in 2013.
What Happened To Susan After Dale’s Death?
After Dale’s death, Susan stepped away from public life. She has not made any appearances or statements and remains private.
What Was The Age Difference Between Susan And Dale?
There was a 23-year age gap between them. Susan was born in 1954, while Dale was born in 1923.
Where Did Susan And Dale Live Together?
They lived on a ranch in Yukon, Oklahoma, where they bred horses and lived a peaceful life away from Hollywood.
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