When people talk about Ray Charles, they often focus on his groundbreaking music, unforgettable voice, and influence on American culture. But behind this iconic figure was a woman whose strength, love, and resilience shaped some of the most important years of his life. Her name was Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, often known simply as “Bea.” Though she never lived in the spotlight, her role in Ray Charles’ personal world was deeper than most fans realize. Her story is not only about being Ray Charles’ former wife; it is about growing up during difficult times, building her own identity, raising a family under extraordinary pressure, and choosing peace when life became too heavy. This article takes a close look at her early life, her marriage, her personal struggles, and the legacy she carries today.
Quick Bio Information
Full Name: Della Beatrice Howard Robinson
Nickname: Bea
Born: 1929
Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
Ethnicity: African-American
Religion: Christian
Famous For: Former Wife Of Ray Charles
Marriage Date: April 5, 1955
Divorce Date: 1977
Children: Ray Jr., David, Robert
Lives Now: Riverside County, California
Early Life And Family Background
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson was born in 1929 in Los Angeles, California, during a time marked by segregation and limited opportunities for African-American families. Her parents were not married, and they separated shortly after she was born. As a result, she was raised mainly by her mother, a hardworking woman committed to keeping the family stable. Much of her early childhood was spent on an 80‑acre farm owned by her mother’s relatives. Life there was simple and often demanding, but it gave her a strong understanding of responsibility, faith, and resilience. Although she faced challenges that many children today would never imagine, those early years helped shape her character and prepared her for the complex future ahead.
Education, Faith, And Values
Della’s formal education ended early. She attended school in Richmond but left after the fourth grade because her mother needed help at home. Even though her schooling was limited, her learning never stopped. Church was the center of her life, and attending weekly services taught her about faith, community, and strength. These values continued to guide her throughout adulthood. She carried a calm spirit, a steady sense of right and wrong, and a quiet confidence that later helped her survive the challenges of being married to a global superstar. Her strong moral foundation also influenced her parenting style and helped her raise her children with discipline and love.
A Deep Love For Gospel Music
Long before she met Ray Charles, music was already a major part of Della’s world. She fell in love with gospel music at a young age and began performing in church choirs. Her voice was powerful and soulful, and she found comfort in singing. As a teenager, she joined Cecil Shaw’s church choir, where she sang on the radio and performed in live concerts. Her talent even earned her a recording deal, and some of her gospel songs were later released on CD. Music was never about fame for her. It was an expression of hope and healing, something she believed brought people closer to faith. This connection to gospel music would later become a shared bond between her and Ray Charles.
How She Met Ray Charles
Della first crossed paths with Ray Charles in 1954 in Houston, Texas. At the time, she was growing in her gospel career, while Ray was rising in rhythm and blues and starting to make a name for himself. Their first meeting was simple, and Della didn’t feel strongly about him right away. But Ray, who was drawn to her spirit, arranged to run into her again. Their connection slowly developed as they talked more and shared their love for music. What began as casual encounters soon turned into something deeper. Their relationship grew naturally, without the glamour or chaos often associated with celebrity romances. In many ways, their early bond was built on honesty, music, and mutual respect.
Marriage To Ray Charles
On April 5, 1955, Della and Ray Charles were married in a small, unremarkable back room in Dallas. The ceremony was simple, almost quiet, but it marked the beginning of a life that would soon become filled with fame, travel, and major challenges. Shortly after their marriage, Ray’s career exploded. His unique blend of gospel, blues, and jazz brought him worldwide recognition. As Ray’s star rose, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson became known as “Ray Charles’ wife,” a title she never asked for but carried with steady grace. Ray affectionately called her “Bea,” and together they began building a family that would soon grow to three children.
Motherhood And Raising Ray Charles’ Children
Only a month after their wedding, Della gave birth to their first son, Ray Charles Robinson Jr., while Ray was away performing. Later, they welcomed two more sons: David in 1958 and Robert in 1960. Della raised the children largely on her own because Ray was constantly traveling for work. Their home in View Park, California, became a place where she tried to create peace, stability, and love despite the demands of Ray’s career. She was the grounding force of the family, handling everything from daily responsibilities to emotional support. Her sons have spoken about her strength, patience, and the quiet ways she kept the household running during difficult times.
Life Behind The Scenes Of Fame
Being married to one of the world’s most famous musicians meant dealing with constant attention, travel, and pressure. Della did not seek fame, and public events were not her comfort zone. Yet she supported Ray through award shows, high‑profile tours, interviews, and media appearances. Ray’s growing popularity meant more demands on his time, which naturally created strains at home. Della balanced her desire for a quiet life with the unavoidable chaos of being connected to a cultural icon. Throughout it all, she showed calmness and dignity, never using their marriage to pursue attention or financial gain.
Marriage Struggles And Emotional Challenges
Despite their strong start, the marriage began to suffer as Ray’s lifestyle changed. His heroin addiction and long absences from home created emotional distance. Even more painful were his many extramarital affairs while on tour. Della Beatrice Howard Robinson tried for years to keep the family together, hoping Ray would change his habits. She confronted him about his drug use and infidelity, but the struggles continued. Living in the shadow of his fame and dealing with emotional hurt took a toll on her heart. The combination of addiction, dishonesty, and growing tension made the marriage increasingly difficult to sustain.
Divorce After Twenty‑Two Years
By 1976, after more than two decades of trying to make the marriage work, Della made a courageous decision. She filed for divorce, choosing to protect her emotional well‑being and the future of her children. The divorce was finalized in 1977. Unlike many celebrity separations, their split was handled quietly and respectfully. Della did not pursue public attention or make accusations. She walked away with dignity, seeking peace after years of stress. Ray later acknowledged that she had been a stabilizing force in his life and that her decision to leave was understandable given the circumstances.
Life After Divorce
After the divorce, Della stepped away from public life completely. She moved to Riverside County, California, and focused on her family, her faith, and her personal healing. She did not remarry and never used Ray’s fame to promote herself. Instead, she chose a quiet, private life, surrounded by her children and later her grandchildren. Today, she is believed to still be living peacefully away from the spotlight. Even in her later years, she remains a figure of quiet strength and a meaningful part of Ray Charles’ story, though she prefers to stay unknown to the public eye.
Net Worth And Financial Independence
At the time of their divorce, Della received a financial settlement estimated at around $15 million, a significant amount for the era. Ray Charles’ net worth was approximately $75 million at the time of his passing in 2004. Despite receiving a large settlement, Della never lived extravagantly. Her lifestyle remained modest, private, and focused on personal well‑being. She is known to have managed her finances wisely, choosing peace and stability over wealth or attention.
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s Legacy
Della’s life story shows the power of quiet strength. She was a stabilizing force during Ray Charles’ most turbulent years and a devoted mother who raised three boys in the shadow of fame. She balanced love with resilience, commitment with self‑respect, and privacy with public scrutiny. Even without seeking attention, her influence is still felt today. She represents the many women whose stories support the success of cultural icons but are rarely told. Her legacy is one of dignity, inner strength, and unwavering love for her family.
Final Thoughts
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson may not have stood in the spotlight, but her presence shaped a major chapter of Ray Charles’ life. Her story reflects the challenges of loving someone in the public eye, the strength required to raise a family alone, and the courage it takes to walk away when a situation becomes too painful. She lived a life marked by sacrifice, loyalty, and self-respect. Today, she remains a powerful reminder that behind every legend is often someone whose support made that greatness possible.
FAQs About Della Beatrice Howard Robinson
Is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Still Alive?
Yes, she is believed to be alive as of 2025 and lives a quiet life in Riverside County, California.
How Old Is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson?
She was born in 1929, making her 96 years old in 2025.
How Many Children Did She Have With Ray Charles?
She had three sons: Ray Jr., David, and Robert.
Where Did She Live After The Divorce?
She settled in Riverside County, California, choosing a peaceful life away from the spotlight.
Was Della Also A Singer?
Yes, she was a gospel singer and even recorded music during her early life.
Why Did She Divorce Ray Charles?
The divorce was mainly due to Ray’s addiction, multiple affairs, and long absences, which strained their marriage beyond repair.
Did She Ever Remarry After Leaving Ray Charles?
No, she remained single and focused on her family and personal peace.
People Also Read: Emma Nesper: What We Know About Her Life Away From The Spotlight