Ray Charles Robinson Sr., an icon known as “The Genius,” wasn’t just a revolutionary force in music, blending gospel, R&B, and jazz into soul. Born on September 23, 1930, in Albany, Georgia, his life, marked by early blindness and personal trials, also encompassed a complex family life. While celebrated for hits like “What’d I Say” and “Georgia on My Mind,” and his incredible 17 Grammy Awards, the story of Ray Charles extends beyond his musical genius into the realm of his marriages and the large family he cultivated. Let’s delve into the life of Ray Charles, exploring the women he married and the numerous children who carry his legacy forward.
Ray Charles’ Marriages: The Cornerstones of His Family Life
Ray Charles’ personal life was as rich and multifaceted as his music, and his marriages played a significant role in shaping his family. He was married twice, and these unions marked important chapters in his life.
Eileen Williams: The First Chapter
In 1951, Ray Charles married Eileen Williams. This was his first foray into marriage, taking place early in his burgeoning career. However, their union was brief, concluding in divorce in 1952. Notably, Ray Charles and Eileen Williams did not have any children together. This period represents a relatively lesser-known aspect of Ray Charles’ life, preceding his major breakthrough into music superstardom and the larger family he would later build.
Della Robinson: A Lasting Partnership and Motherhood
Ray Charles’ second marriage was to Della Robinson. This marriage, which began in 1955, proved to be a much more enduring and significant relationship, lasting until 1977. Della Robinson became a central figure in Ray Charles’ life, not only as his wife but also as the mother of three of his children: Ray Charles Jr., David, and Robert.
Della stood by Ray Charles through significant periods of his career and personal life. Their marriage coincided with his rise to fame and the establishment of his musical legacy. While Ray Charles’ professional life was soaring, their family life was also growing, with Della playing a crucial role in raising their sons amidst the whirlwind of fame and the complexities of Ray’s career. Although their marriage eventually ended, the bond they shared through their children remained, and Della Robinson is remembered as a key figure in the story of Ray Charles’ family.
Ray Charles performing, highlighting his dynamic stage presence and musical genius.
Ray Charles’ Children: A Large and Diverse Family
Beyond his marriages, Ray Charles fathered several children through relationships with other women. In total, he had 12 children, each contributing to the expansive tapestry of his family legacy. These children are:
- Evelyn Robinson (born 1949) with Louise Mitchell
- Ray Charles Robinson Jr. (born 1955) with Della Robinson
- David Robinson (born 1958) with Della Robinson
- Charles Wayne Hendricks (born 1959) with Margie Hendrix
- Robert Robinson (born 1960) with Della Robinson
- Raenee Robinson (born 1961) with Mae Mosley Lyles
- Sheila Raye Charles (born 1963) with Sandra Jean Betts
- Reatha Butler (born 1966)
- Alexandra Bertrand (born 1968) with Mary Chantal Bertrand
- Vincent Kotchounian (born 1977) with Arlette Kotchounian
- Robyn Moffett (born 1978) with Gloria Moffett
- Corey Robinson (born 1987) with Mary Anne Den Bok
Each of Ray Charles’ children has carved their own path, reflecting the diverse aspects of their father’s legacy in their own ways.
Notable Children and Their Paths
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Ray Charles Robinson Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps to some extent, becoming involved in the entertainment industry as a film producer and writer. He also co-authored a book about his father’s life, “Ray Charles: 50 Years of Music,” ensuring his father’s story continues to be told.
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Robert Robinson pursued a path of ministry, becoming Dr. Robert F. Robinson, Sr., and serving as a pastor. His dedication to faith and community showcases another dimension of the values potentially instilled by Ray Charles, even if not directly in music.
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Sheila Raye Charles embraced music like her father, becoming a singer and songwriter. Despite facing personal struggles, she channeled her experiences into her music, releasing an album titled “My Daddy” as a tribute to her father and her journey.
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Vincent Kotchounian ventured into fitness and even contributed creatively to his father’s music, designing a cover for one of Ray Charles’ albums, showcasing a blend of different talents within the family.
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Evelyn Robinson pursued a successful career outside of the entertainment industry, becoming a success coach and consultant, demonstrating the wide array of talents present in Ray Charles’ progeny.
These are just a few examples, and each of Ray Charles’ children has contributed to the world in their unique way, creating a multifaceted family legacy that extends beyond music and into various fields.
The Broader Family Impact and Ray Charles’ Legacy
Ray Charles’ approach to family was unconventional, with multiple relationships contributing to his large number of children. Despite the complexities, he reportedly maintained connections with his children, and many have spoken about his influence on their lives. His legacy isn’t just in his groundbreaking music but also in the expansive family he leaves behind.
His children represent a diverse tapestry of talents and professions, from music and entertainment to ministry, business, and beyond. They collectively embody different aspects of Ray Charles’ spirit – creativity, resilience, and individuality. The story of Ray Charles’ wives and family is a testament to the fact that legacy extends beyond professional achievements into the lives of those we are connected to, and in Ray Charles’ case, his impact resonates through his numerous children and their accomplishments.
Conclusion
Ray Charles’ life was a powerful symphony of musical innovation and personal complexity. Understanding his life involves acknowledging not just his genius in music but also the intricate details of his family life, including his marriages to Eileen Williams and Della Robinson, and his relationships with other women that resulted in his 12 children. His wives and children are integral to his story, painting a portrait of a man whose legacy extends far beyond the stage and recording studio, living on through the diverse lives and achievements of his family. Ray Charles’ impact on music is undeniable, and his family legacy continues to unfold through his children, each carrying a piece of “The Genius” into the future.
