When people think of Ray Charles, they often remember his amazing music, his soulful voice, and his powerful piano playing. But behind the scenes, there was a woman who stood by him for more than 20 years. Her name was Della Beatrice Howard Robinson.
Also known as “Bea,” Della was Ray Charles’ second wife. She was not just the wife of a famous man—she was also a mother, a gospel singer, and a strong woman who made many sacrifices for her family. In this article, we’ll take a simple and clear look at her life, from her early years to her time with Ray, and how she raised their children with love.
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Quick Bio
| Full Name | Della Beatrice Howard Robinson |
| Nickname | Bea |
| Born | 1929 |
| Age (2025) | 96 years old |
| Place of Birth | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Religion | Christian |
| Ex-Husband | Ray Charles |
| Marriage Date | April 5, 1955 |
| Divorce Date | 1977 |
| Children | Ray Jr., David, Robert |
| Job | Gospel Singer (retired) |
| Net Worth | Around $15 million |
| Lives Now | Riverside County, California |
| Still Alive? | Yes, as of 2025 |
| Remarried? | No, stayed single after divorce |
Early Life of Della Beatrice Howard Robinson
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson was born in 1929 in Los Angeles, California. But her childhood was not easy. Her parents were never married, and they separated shortly after she was born. Della was raised by her mother, who worked hard to support them both.
She spent her early years on an 80-acre farm owned by her mother’s family. Life on the farm taught her important lessons—how to be strong, how to help others, and how to survive tough times. Even though she didn’t have much, Della grew up with deep values and a kind heart.
She went to school in Richmond, but only until the fourth grade. After that, she had to take on more responsibilities at home. But she never lost her spirit. Della’s early life was simple, but it helped shape the strong woman she would later become.
Her Love for Gospel Music
One thing Della always loved was music—especially gospel music. It gave her comfort, hope, and a way to express her feelings. As a teenager, she joined Cecil Shaw’s church choir, where she found her voice and her passion.
She didn’t just sing at church. Della also sang on the radio and in live concerts. People noticed her powerful voice and heartfelt singing. Her music made others feel something real. At one point, she even signed a recording deal, and her songs were released on CDs.
Music was a big part of her life. But everything changed when she met a man who would turn her world upside down—Ray Charles.
How Della Beatrice Met Ray Charles
It was 1954 in Houston, Texas, when Della Beatrice met Ray Charles. At that time, Della was doing well in her music career. She was focused, busy, and happy singing. Ray, on the other hand, was just starting to become famous. He had signed with Atlantic Records, and his name was beginning to rise in the music world.
They met at a music event. At first, Della didn’t think much of it. In fact, she didn’t find Ray very impressive. But then, something strange happened. She kept bumping into him again and again—on the road, at shows, at random places. Later, she realized that it wasn’t a coincidence. Ray had been arranging it all. He wanted to see her.
It worked. Over time, they started talking more, laughing, sharing music, and building a connection. That connection slowly turned into love.
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s Wedding to Ray Charles
After dating for about a year, Ray Charles and Della Beatrice Howard Robinson got married on April 5, 1955. But their wedding wasn’t big or fancy. In fact, it was very simple. They got married in a small back room filled with random stuff. A woman they didn’t even know read them their vows.
Even though the wedding was small, it was a big moment in their lives. Della was now Ray Charles’ wife, and her life was about to change in many ways. Fame, travel, music—and many new challenges—were just around the corner.
She also got a new name from Ray. He lovingly called her “Bea,” and that name stayed with her forever.
Raising Three Children with Ray Charles
Della and Ray didn’t waste time starting their family. Just one month after their wedding, they welcomed their first son, Ray Charles Robinson Jr., on May 25, 1955. At the time, Ray was away performing, and Della gave birth alone. But she stayed strong.
Later, they had two more sons—David Robinson in 1958, and Robert Robinson in 1960. Della worked hard to raise all three boys while Ray toured across the country and the world.
Their home was in View Park, California, and Della did everything she could to make it a peaceful, loving place. Even when things were tough, she put her children first and made sure they felt safe and cared for.
Life as Ray Charles’ Ex-Wife in the Spotlight
Being Ray Charles’ wife was not easy. He was becoming more and more famous. People recognized him everywhere. And that meant Della was also pulled into the public eye—whether she wanted it or not.
Della didn’t chase fame. She liked quiet life, church, and family. But still, people knew her as “Ray Charles’ wife”. She had to deal with photographers, fans, interviews, and media stories.
Through all of this, she stayed calm. She stood by Ray’s side during his rise to stardom, through award shows, concerts, and busy travel. Even when he struggled with personal problems, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson stayed loyal and kept the family together.
Troubles in Their Marriage
At first, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson and Ray Charles had a loving and hopeful life together. But over time, things began to change. Ray’s music career was growing fast, and so were his personal struggles.
Ray started using heroin, a very dangerous drug. He also began having affairs with other women while on tour. Della knew what was happening, and it hurt her deeply. Still, she tried to keep the family strong. She focused on raising their boys and tried to believe that things would get better.
But the pain didn’t go away. The lies, the addiction, and the cheating continued. Della stayed strong for many years. But even the strongest hearts can get tired.
Why Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Left Ray Charles
In 1976, after 22 years of trying, Della finally made a brave choice. She filed for divorce. It wasn’t easy, but she knew it was the right thing to do.
Ray’s drug use had become too much. His affairs were constant, and his behavior was sometimes hurtful. Della had given everything to the marriage, but now she needed to take care of herself and her children.
The divorce was final in 1977. Della walked away not with hate, but with peace. She wanted a better life for herself—and most of all, for her boys.
Della’s Life After Divorce
After the divorce, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson stepped away from the spotlight. She didn’t chase fame or give interviews. She chose a quiet life, far from the noise of Hollywood or the music industry.
She moved to Riverside County, California, where she focused on her family. She raised her children with love, faith, and calm. Even though she had once been the wife of a world-famous musician, Della now lived as just a kind, strong mother and grandmother.
And she liked it that way.
Where Is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Now?
As of 2025, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson is believed to still be alive and well, now 96 years old. She continues to live a quiet life, far away from public attention.
She doesn’t appear on social media. She doesn’t do TV or interviews. But she is remembered by many as a woman of great strength and grace. Her children and grandchildren are said to be close to her, and she enjoys the simple joys of family and peace.
Even though we don’t hear much from her today, her story continues to inspire.
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s Net Worth
After her divorce from Ray Charles, Della received a large divorce settlement. Reports say she was given around $15 million, which was a big amount, even back then.
Ray Charles was worth about $75 million when he passed away in 2004. But Della never cared about money or fame. What mattered most to her was a peaceful life for her family.
She used her settlement wisely. She never showed off or lived in luxury. Instead, she chose a simple, private life where she could stay safe and happy.
Final Thoughts
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson was more than Ray Charles’ ex-wife. She was a singer, a mother, and a woman of deep strength. Her story is not just about fame or heartbreak—it’s about love, patience, and the courage to walk away when things hurt too much.
She gave up her own music career to support Ray and raise their children. She stood by him through his darkest times. And when it became too painful, she chose peace, not drama.
Even now, years later, her story reminds us of something powerful: You can be strong, even when no one sees it. You can build a good life, even after deep pain. And you can choose your own path, even after being known as someone else’s “wife.”
Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s quiet life may not be in the news, but her strength is a story worth remembering.
(FAQs)
Is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson still alive?
Yes, she is still alive in 2025. She is 96 years old and lives a quiet life away from the spotlight.
How old is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson?
She was born in 1929, so she is 96 years old in 2025. Her exact birthday is not known.
How many kids does Della Beatrice Howard Robinson have?
She has three sons with Ray Charles: Ray Jr., David, and Robert. She raised them mostly by herself.
Where does Della Beatrice Howard Robinson live now?
In 2025, she lives a quiet life in Riverside County, California, with her children and grandchildren.
Did Della Beatrice Howard Robinson get married again?
No, she never got married again after Ray Charles. She stayed single and focused on her family.
You may also read: What Happened to Mirtha Jung, George Jung’s Ex-Wife, After the Cartel?
