Della Reese, an iconic American singer, actress, and minister, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry during her lifetime. Known for her soulful voice and captivating performances, she became a household name through her work in music and television. Reese, who passed away on November 19, 2017, continues to be remembered for her contributions to both the arts and her humanitarian efforts. But beyond her legacy as a performer and spiritual leader, many are curious about her financial accomplishments, particularly her net worth at the time of her passing. So, what was Della Reese's net worth at death? Let’s explore her life, career, and financial legacy.
As a trailblazer, Reese transitioned seamlessly from music to acting, becoming a beloved figure in Hollywood. Her role as Tess in the hit television series "Touched by an Angel" cemented her status as a cultural icon. Over her six-decade-long career, Della Reese amassed significant wealth, which reflects her dedication and success. However, understanding her net worth is not just about numbers—it's also about appreciating the journey of a woman who broke barriers and inspired countless individuals worldwide.
In this article, we delve deep into the life of Della Reese, her career milestones, and her financial achievements, including an in-depth exploration of Della Reese's net worth at death. We’ll also answer pressing questions about her personal life, career highlights, and how she managed to leave such a lasting impact on the entertainment world and beyond.
Table of Contents
- Biography of Della Reese
- How Did Della Reese Start Her Career?
- What Was Della Reese's Net Worth at Death?
- Early Life and Family Background
- Della Reese's Career in Music
- Della Reese as an Actress
- What Was Della Reese's Most Famous Role?
- Philanthropy and Spiritual Journey
- Personal Life and Marriages
- Legacy and Tributes to Della Reese
- How Did Della Reese Impact Hollywood?
- Financial Achievements of Della Reese
- Frequently Asked Questions About Della Reese
- Conclusion on Della Reese’s Net Worth
Biography of Della Reese
Della Reese, born Delloreese Patricia Early on July 6, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, was a multi-talented performer whose career spanned more than six decades. She made her mark as a jazz and gospel singer, actress, talk show host, and ordained minister. Reese's ability to excel in multiple domains earned her widespread recognition and respect.
Personal Details and Bio Data
| Full Name | Delloreese Patricia Early |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 6, 1931 |
| Place of Birth | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Date of Death | November 19, 2017 |
| Profession | Singer, Actress, Minister |
| Famous For | Role in "Touched by an Angel" |
How Did Della Reese Start Her Career?
Della Reese's career began in the mid-1940s when she joined the gospel group "The Meditation Singers" as a teenager. Her powerful voice quickly gained attention, and she eventually transitioned to pop and jazz music. By the 1950s, Reese had signed a recording contract and released a string of hit songs that showcased her vocal prowess.
What Was Della Reese's Net Worth at Death?
At the time of her passing in 2017, Della Reese's net worth at death was estimated to be around $3 million. This wealth was accumulated through her successful careers in music, television, and film, as well as her work as a spiritual leader. Although not as substantial as some Hollywood stars, Reese's net worth reflects a lifetime of dedication to her craft and her community.
Early Life and Family Background
Della Reese was the only child of Richard Thaddeus Early, a steelworker, and Nellie Mitchelle, a cook. Growing up in Detroit, she was exposed to gospel music at a young age, which heavily influenced her career. Reese's early life was marked by challenges, including the loss of her mother when she was just a teenager, but these experiences shaped her resilience and determination.
Della Reese's Career in Music
Reese first gained prominence as a gospel singer before transitioning to pop and jazz. Her breakthrough hit, "Don't You Know?" released in 1959, became a chart-topping success and remains one of her most iconic songs. Over the years, she released numerous albums that showcased her versatility and unique vocal style.
Della Reese as an Actress
In addition to her music career, Reese made significant contributions to television and film. Her role as Tess in "Touched by an Angel" (1994–2003) earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. She also appeared in numerous other TV shows and movies, demonstrating her range as an actress.
What Was Della Reese's Most Famous Role?
Della Reese is best known for her portrayal of Tess, a wise and compassionate angel, in the CBS series "Touched by an Angel." The show ran for nine seasons and became a cultural phenomenon, touching the lives of millions of viewers with its uplifting messages and spiritual themes.
Philanthropy and Spiritual Journey
Later in life, Reese became an ordained minister and devoted herself to spiritual and philanthropic causes. She founded the Understanding Principles for Better Living Church in Los Angeles, where she served as a pastor and mentor, further solidifying her legacy as a spiritual leader.
Personal Life and Marriages
Della Reese's personal life was marked by both joy and tragedy. She married Franklin Thomas Lett Jr., a concert producer and writer, in 1983, and the couple remained together until her death. Reese had four children, including one she adopted after her close friend passed away.
Legacy and Tributes to Della Reese
Following her death, tributes poured in from fans and colleagues alike, celebrating her life and contributions. Reese's impact on the entertainment industry and her spiritual leadership continue to inspire new generations.
How Did Della Reese Impact Hollywood?
Della Reese broke barriers as one of the first African-American women to host a talk show, "Della," in the 1960s. Her success paved the way for future generations of Black performers and creators in Hollywood, making her a trailblazer in the industry.
Financial Achievements of Della Reese
While her net worth may not rival that of some modern celebrities, Reese's financial accomplishments were significant for her time. Her earnings from music, television, and live performances allowed her to live comfortably and support her philanthropic endeavors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Della Reese
- What was Della Reese's most famous song?
- How did Della Reese transition from music to acting?
- What inspired Della Reese to become a minister?
- What legacy did Della Reese leave behind?
Conclusion on Della Reese’s Net Worth
Della Reese's net worth at death may not have been astronomical, but it reflects a life well-lived and a career filled with meaningful achievements. Her contributions to music, television, and spiritual communities have left a lasting legacy, ensuring that her influence will be felt for generations to come. Della Reese remains an icon whose story inspires us to pursue our passions and make a difference in the world.
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