Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Today: Where Is Ray Charles’ Ex-Wife Now?

When we think about the famous singer Ray Charles, we often picture his smooth voice, hit songs, and dark sunglasses. But behind his success was a strong and kind woman named Della Beatrice Howard Robinson. Many people knew her as Bea, Ray’s second wife and the woman who stayed by his side for over two decades.

Even though she lived in the shadow of a music legend, Della had her own story — one filled with love, pain, strength, and quiet courage. Today, many wonder: Where is she now? What happened after her life with Ray Charles?

In this article, we’ll take a close look at Della Beatrice Howard Robinson — her early life, love story with Ray, the hard times she faced, and where she is in 2025. Let’s begin with how it all started.

Early Life of Della Beatrice Howard Robinson

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson was born in 1929, in Los Angeles, California. People often call her by her nickname, Bea. Her childhood was not easy. Her parents were not married, and they separated soon after she was born. She was raised by her mother alone.

Bea grew up on a big 80-acre farm owned by her mother’s family. Life on the farm was simple but full of hard work. She didn’t have much, but she learned how to be strong, helpful, and independent. These lessons stayed with her forever.

She only went to school until the fourth grade, in Richmond. After that, she focused on helping her family. Even though her education was limited, she grew into a wise and caring woman with a deep understanding of life.

Della’s Love for Gospel Music

From a young age, Bea loved to sing. Music gave her peace and joy. She joined Cecil Shaw’s church choir, where her voice quickly stood out. People who heard her sing knew she had something special.

She didn’t just sing in church. She performed at local events and even on the radio. Her powerful and emotional voice touched many hearts. It wasn’t long before she was offered recording opportunities, and her songs were shared on CDs.

At that time, gospel music wasn’t just about singing — it was about sharing faith and hope. Della’s music helped people feel better and stronger. Her growing fame in the gospel world also brought someone special into her life — Ray Charles.

Meeting Ray Charles for the First Time

In 1954, something life-changing happened. Della met Ray Charles in Houston, Texas. She was in her mid-20s, and her gospel career was going well. Ray was also rising in fame, and music brought them together.

They met at a music event. There was something special between them right away. You know that feeling when two people just “click”? That’s what happened. Ray was drawn to Bea’s calm nature and strong voice. She was different from others he had met.

Ray gave her the nickname “Bea”, and soon, they began dating. It didn’t take long for them to realize they wanted to be together. Their love story was just beginning.

Marriage to Ray Charles

On April 5, 1955, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson married Ray Charles. They moved to California and started a new chapter of life. At first, things were sweet. Ray was becoming a star, and Della supported him through it all.

Even though Ray traveled a lot for his concerts and music, Bea tried to make their home warm and loving. She wasn’t just a wife — she was his emotional anchor during the busiest time of his life. Many people saw her as the strong woman behind the man.

But with fame came problems too. Life was about to get much harder for Della, even though she continued to give everything to her family.

Raising Three Children Together

Della and Ray had three sons together. Their first child, Ray Charles Robinson Jr., was born on May 25, 1955. Ray was away playing a show in Texas when his son was born. This shows how busy his life was, even during big family moments.

A few years later, they had David Robinson in 1958, and Robert Robinson in 1960. Della stayed home and focused on being a full-time mom. While Ray traveled for music, she made sure their children had a normal, stable life.

They lived in View Park, California, where Della worked hard to keep her children safe and happy. Even with all the attention on Ray Charles, she did everything quietly in the background — with love, care, and strength.

The Hard Years

But behind the doors of their home, life wasn’t always happy. Ray Charles had many struggles. He used drugs, especially heroin, which created pain in the family. He also had affairs with other women, even while married to Della.

Can you imagine how hard it must have been for Della? She tried to be strong for her sons. She hoped Ray would change. But the pain kept coming back. Della knew her children needed a safe and peaceful home, and she kept doing her best every day.

For a long time, she stayed — even though it was hurting her. She hoped things would get better. But the problems just continued to grow.

Why Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Left Ray Charles

After many years of trying to hold her family together, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson made a very hard choice. In 1976, she filed for divorce. It became final in 1977, ending a 22-year marriage.

So why did she finally leave? The simple answer is: she had enough. Ray’s drug use was getting worse. His affairs with other women never stopped. Della had tried everything to save the marriage. But it was hurting her and her children too much.

Choosing to leave wasn’t easy. But Della wanted peace for her family. She showed great courage by walking away — not for herself, but to protect her sons.

Life After Divorce

After the divorce, Della did something many people don’t expect — she disappeared from the spotlight. She didn’t go on TV. She didn’t talk to reporters. She quietly began a new life, focused only on her children.

She moved on with grace and calm. Instead of chasing fame or attention, Della stayed true to her values. She focused on giving her sons a loving, peaceful home.

Even though she had been the wife of a global star, Della chose a simple, private life. And that choice showed how strong and wise she truly was.

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s Net Worth

When the divorce was settled, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson reportedly received around $15 million. That may sound like a lot, but remember — Ray Charles was worth about $75 million when he passed away in 2004.

Della didn’t waste her money. She used it wisely to build a stable life for herself and her children. She never showed off her wealth. She lived quietly and carefully.

Even today, her estimated net worth is still believed to be around $15 million. But to Della, peace and family mattered much more than money.

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson’s Life Today

So, where is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson today?

As of 2025, she is believed to live in Riverside County, California. She stays far away from the media. She spends her time with her children and grandchildren, enjoying the quiet life she built after leaving Ray Charles.

She doesn’t use social media. She doesn’t go to public events. She has chosen a life of peace, family, and faith.

While the world still talks about Ray Charles, Della has found happiness in being a mother and grandmother. That’s where her heart is now.

Is Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Still Alive?

Yes, as of 2025, Della Beatrice Howard Robinson is still alive. She is around 96 years old. There has been no news or reports about her passing.

Even though she is not in the public eye, fans still wonder about her. Many admire her for staying strong and choosing privacy. Her story is one that still inspires people today.

What We Can Learn from Della’s Life Story

The story of Della Beatrice Howard Robinson teaches us many things.

She grew up with very little, but became a strong woman. She followed her passion for music and built a family with one of the world’s biggest stars. Even when life got tough, she stayed kind and calm.

And when it became too painful, she made the brave choice to leave and protect her family. Today, she lives a peaceful life — far from fame, but full of love.

Her life reminds us that strength isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s quiet. Sometimes, strength looks like walking away from pain and choosing peace.

Final Thoughts

Della Beatrice Howard Robinson is more than just the ex-wife of Ray Charles. She is a woman of grace, faith, and courage.

She stood beside a legend, raised three children, and made hard choices with a kind heart. She gave up fame for family. And she built a life filled with quiet strength.

In a world that often celebrates loud success, Della’s story shows the power of quiet love and inner strength.