Della Reese Height: Della Reese was an American jazz and gospel singer, actress, as well as an ordained minister. She stood at 1.57 meters or 5 feet 2 inches. Reese had the powerful voice and dazzling presence that presented lasting influences on both the music and acting industries.
From stage performances to starring in the often-talked-about TV show Touched by an Angel, her talents leaped through. Although she was short, Della Reese’s commanding personality and dynamic performances left an indelible mark on the entertainment world. She remains an inspiration to new generations of artists and performers today.
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Della Reese Bio/Wiki
| Full Name | Delloreese Patricia Early |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | Della Reese |
| Born | July 6, 1931 |
| Place of Birth | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Died | November 19, 2017 |
| Profession | Singer, Actress, Minister |
| Genres | Jazz, Gospel, R&B |
| Notable Works | Touched by an Angel (TV Series), Don’t You Know (Song) |
| Spouse(s) | Vermont Adolphus Bon Taliaferro (1952–1958), Leroy Basil Gray (1959–1961), Mercer Ellington (1961), Franklin Thomas Lett Jr. (1983–2017) |
| Children | Dominique Reese, Franklin Reese, James Reese |
| Adopted Daughter | Delores Daniels Owens (deceased 2002) |
| Height | 1.57 m (5’2″) |
| Parents | Richard Thaddeus Early (father), Nellie Mitchelle Early (mother) |
| Education | Attended Cass Technical High School, Wayne State University (did not complete degree) |
| Awards | 1 Grammy Award, 2 Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame |
| Legacy | Pioneering African-American woman in entertainment, influential in gospel and jazz music |
Who Is Della Reese?
Della Reese, born Delloreese Patricia Early on July 6, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, was a legendary American singer, actress, and ordained minister. She began her career in music at the young age of 6, performing in church, and later became known for her unique blend of jazz, gospel, and R&B.
Reese made a significant mark in the entertainment industry with her powerful voice, earning recognition as one of the top gospel and jazz singers of her time. She also appeared in several films and TV series, most notably the hit show Touched by an Angel, where she played the role of Tess, a compassionate angel.
Reese’s career was multifaceted, and she became a trailblazer for African-American women in entertainment. She was nominated for several awards, including a Grammy, and she earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to music and television.
Della Reese Early Life
Della Reese was born on July 6, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, to Richard Thaddeus Early, an African American steelworker, and Nellie Mitchelle Early, a cook of Cherokee descent. Growing up in a loving but modest household, Della showed an early interest in music and performance.
Encouraged by her family, Della’s passion for singing and performing flourished as she attended Cass Technical High School in Detroit, where she was introduced to various aspects of music and theater.
At the age of 13, Della’s singing talent caught the attention of gospel legend Mahalia Jackson, who invited her to sing with her. This moment was a turning point in Della’s early life, setting the stage for her future in the entertainment industry.
Della took a break from Wayne State University to support her family, but her dedication to music and performance never wavered. She soon formed her own gospel group, Meditation Singers, and began making a name for herself as a radio singer.
Della Reese Family
Della Reese was born into a supportive and loving family. Her father, Richard Thaddeus Early, was an African American steelworker, while her mother, Nellie Mitchelle Early, was a cook of Cherokee descent.
Della had siblings, and they all grew up together in Detroit, Michigan, where music and faith were significant parts of their lives. Her mother, in particular, played a pivotal role in fostering her interest in music, taking her to church and encouraging her to sing from a young age.
Throughout her life, Della Reese experienced several marriages. She married Vermont Adolphus Bon Taliaferro, a factory worker, in 1952, but their marriage ended in separation in 1958. She later married Leroy Basil Gray, an accountant, in the late 1950s, but this marriage also ended.
Della had a brief marriage to musician Mercer Ellington, the son of the legendary Duke Ellington, but it was annulled in 1961. Della’s fourth marriage to Franklin Thomas Lett Jr., a journalist and concert producer, lasted for 45 years, until her passing in 2017.
In addition to her biological children—Dominique Reese, James Reese, and Franklin Reese—Della also adopted a daughter, Delores Daniels Owens, who passed away in 2002.
Della Reese Amazing Career
Della Reese’s career spanned decades, and she became an iconic figure in the entertainment industry. She initially gained recognition as a jazz and gospel singer, showcasing her incredible vocal talents. Della’s career took off in the 1950s, when she began performing in nightclubs and on television.
Her big break came in 1959 when she became the first African American woman to host her own TV talk show, “Della.” This was a groundbreaking moment in television history, as it opened doors for other African American performers in mainstream media.
Della also made a significant mark as an actress, most notably for her role in the hit television series Touched by an Angel, where she portrayed the character of Tess, a supervising angel.
In addition to Touched by an Angel, she appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including Harlem Nights (1989) and The Preacher’s Wife (1996). Della Reese’s career was marked by versatility, as she seamlessly transitioned between music, television, and film.
Della Reese Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 1.57 meters (5 feet 2 inches) |
| Weight | Approximately 70 kg (154 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown/Black |
| Body Type | Full-figured |
| Skin Tone | Dark |
Della Reese Husband/Boyfriend and Relationship status
Della Reese had a notable personal life, with several marriages and significant relationships throughout her years. She was married four times during her life. Her first marriage was to Vermont Adolphus Bon Taliaferro, a factory worker, in 1952.
They were together for six years before separating in 1958. Later, she married Leroy Basil Gray, an accountant, but this union also ended in divorce.
Her third marriage was to jazz musician Mercer Ellington, though this marriage was short-lived and annulled in 1961. In 1983, Della Reese married Franklin Thomas Lett Jr., a journalist and concert producer, and the couple remained together for 45 years until her passing in 2017.
Throughout her life, Della Reese balanced her career and personal life, and her relationship with Franklin Lett was the most enduring.
Della Reese Net Worth
Della Reese net worth at the time of her passing in 2017 was estimated to be around $3 million. Throughout her successful career in music, television, and film, Reese earned substantial income from her work as a singer, actress, and minister.
Her iconic role as Tess in the popular TV series Touched by an Angel (1994-2003) contributed significantly to her wealth. In addition to her acting career, Reese also enjoyed a prosperous career in gospel and jazz music, releasing several albums over the years.
Beyond her entertainment career, Della Reese was also a successful entrepreneur, owning businesses and properties. She earned income through her ministry and even had a career as a motivational speaker. Della Reese’s diverse career and ventures contributed to her impressive net worth and legacy.
Della Reese Plan and Goals
Della Reese was a woman of great vision and ambition throughout her life. In addition to her successful music and acting career, she aimed to inspire and uplift others, which is evident in her work as an ordained minister and spiritual leader.
She used her platform to spread messages of hope, faith, and perseverance, often incorporating these themes into her music and roles. Reese’s dedication to helping others was not only a personal mission but also a central theme in her career.
Looking ahead, Della Reese’s goal was to continue sharing her faith and wisdom with others, especially through her role as Tess in Touched by an Angel. She hoped to leave a lasting impact on people’s lives by encouraging them to live with love, empathy, and compassion.
Her work as a motivational speaker and mentor further reflected her passion for guiding others toward personal and spiritual growth. Although her life was tragically cut short, Della Reese’s legacy and vision continue to inspire.
Fun Facts about Della Reese Height
Early Start in Music:
Della Reese started singing at the age of six in her church choir, which sparked her lifelong passion for music.
Discovering Talent:
At the age of 13, Reese was discovered by legendary gospel singer Mahalia Jackson, who helped her launch her professional singing career.
Television Icon:
Della Reese became a household name for her role as Tess on the popular TV show Touched by an Angel, which aired from 1994 to 2003.
Ordained Minister:
In addition to her music and acting careers, Della Reese was an ordained minister, and she preached and helped counsel others in her community.
Successful Music Career:
Reese was a well-known jazz and gospel singer and had a string of successful albums throughout her career, including hits like “Don’t You Know” and “Two Little Girls.”
Diverse Roles:
Aside from Touched by an Angel, Reese appeared in several films and TV shows, including Harlem Nights and Chances Are.
Rising Star on Radio:
Before her television fame, she was a popular radio singer and was known for her deep, soulful voice.
Spiritual Influence:
Reese founded her own church, the Della Reese Ministries, where she inspired and motivated others through her spiritual teachings.
Adoptive Mother:
Della Reese adopted a daughter, Delores Daniels Owens, who sadly passed away in 2002.
Honored With Awards:
Throughout her career, Reese received many accolades, including an honorary doctorate degree for her work in entertainment and ministry, as well as a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Frequently Asked Questions about Della Reese Height
What was Della Reese most famous role?
Della Reese is best known for her role as Tess in the popular TV series Touched by an Angel, which aired from 1994 to 2003. Her portrayal of a caring angel made her a beloved figure in the entertainment world.
Did Della Reese ever have a music career?
Yes, Della Reese was a renowned jazz and gospel singer. She began her singing career in her youth and achieved significant success, with hits such as “Don’t You Know” and several successful albums.
Was Della Reese ever married?
Yes, Della Reese was married four times. Her longest marriage was to Franklin Thomas Lett Jr., a journalist and concert producer, with whom she had a 45-year union until her passing.
Did Della Reese have children?
Yes, Della Reese had biological children, including Franklin Reese, James Reese, and Dominique Reese. She also adopted a daughter, Delores Daniels Owens, who sadly passed away in 2002.
What was Della Reese role in religion?
Della Reese was an ordained minister. She not only pursued a successful career in entertainment but also founded her own church and served as a spiritual leader, helping others with her teachings.
What other TV shows or films did Della Reese appear in?
Aside from Touched by an Angel, Della Reese appeared in films such as Harlem Nights, Chances Are, and The Hurricane and also had roles in TV series like The Royal Family and The Big Time.
How did Della Reese contribute to the world outside of entertainment?
In addition to her successful entertainment career, Della Reese was known for her philanthropy and spiritual guidance. She used her platform to mentor and inspire others, offering a positive influence on many.
Conclusion of Della Reese Height
Della Reese was a remarkable individual whose impact spanned beyond the entertainment industry. As a talented jazz and gospel singer, an iconic actress, and an ordained minister, she touched the lives of many with her powerful performances and deep spiritual insights.
Known for her role as Tess in Touched by an Angel, Reese became a beloved figure in television history. Her dedication to both her craft and her faith made her a true trailblazer.
Despite personal struggles, including multiple marriages and the loss of her adopted daughter, Della Reese’s legacy remains one of resilience, compassion, and profound influence.