Discovering the Legacy of Della Reese: A Tribute to the Iconic Singer and Actress
Della Reese was a multitalented American singer, actress, and ordained minister. She became famous for her smooth jazz and gospel singing, with hit songs like “Don’t You Know?” and “And That Reminds Me.” Della also ventured into television, where she played the mother of a supernatural prodigy in “Touched by an Angel.” Her career spanned more than six decades, and her legacy continues to inspire many people worldwide.
This blog post is a tribute to Della Reese, highlighting her life, career, and impact on the entertainment industry and beyond.
The Early Years
Della Reese, born Delloreese Patricia Early, on July 6, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, was the oldest of six children. Her parents were gospel singers, and Della started singing with her mother’s group at a young age. Della’s father, who worked as a steelworker, left the family when she was a child.
Della’s mother taught her to play the piano and sing, and by the time she was in high school, she had started recording songs with local gospel groups. In 1947, at the age of 16, she won a contest that allowed her to perform with the world-famous gospel singer Mahalia Jackson.
Della went on to attend Wayne State University, where she studied psychology and joined a jazz band. In 1953, she moved to New York City, where she started recording songs for Jubilee Records. She later signed with RCA Records, where she produced hit singles and albums.
The Acting Career Begins
Della Reese earned her first acting credit in 1960 in the film, “Let No Man Write My Epitaph.” She went on to act in several other movies, including “Harlem Nights” and “A Thin Line Between Love and Hate.”
Her television career began in 1969, where she hosted her own talk show, “Della.” Later, she guest-starred in several popular TV shows, including “Mod Squad,” “Police Woman,” and “Sanford and Son.”
Della’s breakout acting role came when she was cast as Tess, an angel with a heart to guide, in the TV series “Touched by an Angel.” She won several awards for her performance, becoming a household name around the world. She continued appearing on the show until its final season in 2003.
Della Reese’s Legacy Lives On
Della Reese inspired many of her contemporaries and younger generations with her talent, courage, and generosity. Besides her music and acting career, she was also an ordained minister, having received an honorary doctorate in theology in 1989.
Della was a powerful advocate for social justice and equality. She marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and supported several organizations that help end discrimination against people of color.
She also participated in several philanthropic activities, including supporting the Della Reese Foundation, which offered scholarships for underprivileged children to study music, art, and dance.
In 2017, Della Reese passed away at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in entertainment, activism, and love for humanity.
7 FAQs About Della Reese
1. What was Della Reese’s biggest hit song?
Della’s most successful song was “Don’t You Know?” which was released in 1959 and reached the top ten of the pop and R&B charts.
2. How did Della Reese get into acting?
Della Reese started her acting career in 1960 when she was cast in the film “Let No Man Write My Epitaph.”
3. Was Della Reese a religious figure?
Yes, Della Reese was an ordained minister, having received an honorary doctorate in theology in 1989.
4. What was Della Reese’s most notable acting role?
Della’s most famous acting role was as Tess, an angel with a heart to guide in the TV series “Touched by an Angel.”
5. What philanthropic activities did Della Reese participate in?
Della Reese supported several organizations that help end discrimination against people of color, and she established the Della Reese Foundation, which offered scholarships for underprivileged children to study music, art, and dance.
6. Did Della Reese ever win an award?
Yes, Della Reese won several awards for her acting, including two nominations for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.
7. What was Della Reese’s cause of death?
Della Reese passed away on November 19, 2017, due to complications arising from diabetes.
The Inspiration of Della Reese
Della Reese’s enduring legacy is that of a woman who used her talent and platform to inspire people to live their best lives. She was a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, breaking down barriers for women and people of color.
Della’s powerful voice and exceptional acting skills opened doors for many aspiring singers and actors, proving that dreams could come true with hard work and dedication.
As an ordained minister, Della’s sermons were full of hope and encouragement, helping her congregation find peace and joy in their lives.
Della Reese’s extraordinary career and contributions to society will always be remembered and treasured.
Quotes From Della Reese
“Sometimes the answers to our prayers are disappointments, but those disappointments may be God’s way of telling us that He has something better planned.”
“I believe that without courage, however carefully cultivated, no one can be successful in life.”
“God never gives you more than you can bear. It’s not always easy to deal with, but you learn to hang on to his word and promises.”
“I know that there’s a power greater than me that rules the universe, and all that He does is always for my good, regardless of whether or not I understand it at the time.”
The Legacy Continues
In conclusion, Della Reese was an inspiring figure whose talent and determination paved the way for many aspiring singers and actors. Her legacy continues to inspire generations, encouraging people to live their best lives and never give up on their dreams.
As we continue to celebrate Della’s music, acting, and activism, we must also remember the values that guided her life- courage, faith, and kindness. Let’s honor her by living lives that make a difference in the world.
Call-to-Action: Listen to some of Della Reese’s music, watch an episode of “Touched by an Angel,” or learn more about the Della Reese Foundation. Let’s keep her legacy alive!