Della Beatrice Howard Robinson, affectionately known as “Bea,” is widely recognized as the second wife of the legendary musician Ray Charles. Their marriage, which lasted over two decades, was marked by love, challenges, and eventual separation. Here’s an in-depth look into the life of the woman who stood by Ray Charles during his early struggles and witnessed his rise to international fame.
Early Life and Background
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson was born in 1929 in Los Angeles, California. Raised primarily by her mother, Bea experienced a challenging upbringing in the absence of her father, who lived in Houston with another family. Despite these difficulties, Bea was shaped by a strong Christian faith that would play a significant role throughout her life.
From a young age, Bea developed a passion for gospel music, and she became a prominent figure in her local church choir. Her talent for singing was undeniable, and her dedication led to her joining Cecil Shaw’s choir, where her gospel career began to flourish.
Career as a Gospel Singer
Bea’s journey as a gospel singer was rooted in her faith and love for music. She performed in churches and theaters, captivating audiences with her soulful voice. Her work on the radio and in live performances helped her gain a modest following in the gospel community, but her primary focus remained on her family life.
As her gospel career grew, Bea balanced her musical aspirations with raising her children, a task made more demanding by her husband Ray Charles’ burgeoning career and frequent absences.
Meeting Ray Charles
In the mid-1950s, Bea’s life took a dramatic turn when she met Ray Charles in Texas. At the time, Ray was still trying to establish his career in the music industry, while Bea was gaining success in her gospel music endeavors. Their connection was immediate, and they began dating shortly after.
On April 5, 1955, the couple married in a modest ceremony in Dallas, Texas. At the time of their marriage, Ray was still relatively unknown, and their life together was one of humility and togetherness. The early years of their marriage were peaceful as Ray worked hard to gain traction in the music world, with Bea providing the stability and support that allowed him to focus on his craft.
Family Life and Raising Children
In May 1955, Bea and Ray welcomed their first child, Ray Charles Robinson Jr. Over the next few years, their family grew with the birth of two more sons, David Robinson and Robert Robinson. Bea was the foundation of the family, balancing motherhood and supporting Ray as his career began to soar.
Despite her growing responsibilities as a mother, Bea remained committed to her own musical passions. However, as Ray’s fame grew, the demands of his career, coupled with his drug addiction and infidelity, began to strain their relationship.
The Struggles of Marriage and Separation
By the late 1960s, Ray Charles’ skyrocketing success came with personal challenges, including substance abuse and numerous extramarital affairs. Bea tried to support Ray through these struggles, standing by him even as their relationship faced increasing difficulties.
However, the pressures of Ray’s lifestyle became overwhelming, and in 1977, after more than two decades of marriage, Bea decided to file for divorce. It was a difficult but necessary decision, as she sought to protect her well-being and that of her children. The divorce marked the end of a tumultuous chapter in Bea’s life, but she emerged from it with her resilience intact.
Life After Divorce
Following her divorce from Ray Charles, Bea largely stepped away from the public eye. She focused on raising her children and maintained a low profile. Despite the challenges she faced during her marriage, Bea’s strength and dedication to her family never wavered.
Her divorce settlement provided her with financial security, and her estimated net worth is around $15 million. This stability allowed Bea to live comfortably and support her children as they pursued their own paths in life.
Ray Charles’ Legacy and Bea’s Contribution
Ray Charles is remembered as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, known for his groundbreaking contributions to jazz, blues, and soul music. Behind his success, however, was the unwavering support of Bea, especially during the early years of his career.
Bea’s role in Ray’s life extended far beyond that of a spouse. She provided the stability and emotional support that allowed Ray to focus on his music, even as his fame grew. While their marriage ended in divorce, Bea’s contributions to Ray’s journey and success cannot be overlooked.
A Legacy of Resilience
Today, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson is remembered as a woman of grace, strength, and resilience. Her life was not without hardship, but she faced each challenge with unwavering determination. Despite the ups and downs of her marriage to Ray Charles, Bea emerged as a figure of inspiration, particularly for her ability to persevere through difficult circumstances.
Conclusion
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s life is one of resilience, love, and dedication. From her early days as a gospel singer to her role as the wife of a musical legend, Bea’s journey was filled with both triumphs and tribulations. Her contributions to Ray Charles’ career and her unwavering commitment to her family have left a lasting legacy. Bea’s story is a testament to her strength, grace, and perseverance, making her an inspiration to many.
