Is Della Reese Still Alive? Remembering A Beloved Icon
Many people often find themselves wondering about the lives of performers who touched their hearts, especially those whose work continues to resonate years later. It's a natural thing to ask, "Is Della Reese still alive?" This question comes up a lot, reflecting a genuine curiosity about a woman who made a very big mark in both music and television. Her presence was something special, and her contributions are certainly worth looking back at.
Della Reese, a name that really became a household word, shaped the entertainment scene for many decades. She was born on July 6, 1931, and built a successful singing career before becoming widely recognized for her role in the much-loved television series, Touched by an Angel. Her life story is a rich tapestry of accomplishments and moments that truly captured the public's attention.
As fans continue to hold her memory dear, it's important to understand the full scope of her extraordinary life and the lasting impact she had on the world of music and television. We'll explore her journey, her many talents, and the legacy she left behind, providing a clear picture of her remarkable path.
Table of Contents
- Della Reese: A Brief Biography
- Personal Details and Bio Data
- The Early Years and Musical Beginnings
- A Star in Music: Her Vocal Gifts
- Transitioning to the Screen: Acting Success
- Touched by an Angel: A Defining Role
- Later Projects and Lasting Contributions
- Honors and Recognitions
- Remembering Della Reese: Her Passing and Legacy
- Frequently Asked Questions About Della Reese
Della Reese: A Brief Biography
Della Reese was a performer who captivated audiences with her voice and later, her acting. She was a singer and an actress, and her name truly became a household word when she took on the part of Tess, a divine supervisor, on the CBS program, Touched by an Angel. This show, which was centered on an angel named Monica, played by Roma Downey, and her supervisor Tess, had them passing along messages from a higher power to those needing some help. It was a role that really brought her a lot of fame later in her life, as NPR's Eric Deggans reported, so that's something to think about.
She was born and grew up in Detroit, Michigan, and her early life set the stage for a very remarkable career. Della's journey in the public eye showed a person with many different talents, moving from the stage to the screen with a natural ease. Her life story is one of consistent performance and a deep connection with her audience, which is quite something.
Personal Details and Bio Data
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Della Reese Lett |
| Born | July 6, 1931 |
| Died | November 19, 2017 |
| Age at Death | 86 years old |
| Place of Birth | Detroit, Michigan |
| Place of Death | Encino, California |
| Occupation | Singer, Actress, Pastor |
| Known For | Gospel and Jazz Artist, "Don't You Know" (1959 hit), Role as Tess on Touched by an Angel, Appearances on The Love Boat and MacGyver |
| Spouse | Franklin Thomas Lett (married for over 35 years) |
| Net Worth at Death | $3 million |
The Early Years and Musical Beginnings
Born on July 6, 1931, Della Reese began her journey in Detroit, Michigan. Her path into the world of entertainment started with her incredible vocal gifts. Early on, she found her calling in gospel and jazz music, developing a style that was uniquely her own. She possessed a voice that truly carried feeling and power, and it wasn't long before people started to take notice of her remarkable talent. This early foundation in music, you know, really shaped the performer she would become.
In 1953, she made a significant step in her career by signing a recording contract with Jubilee Records. This partnership led to the creation of six albums, which showcased her growing artistry and her ability to connect with listeners. These initial recordings helped establish her as a force in the music scene, setting the stage for even bigger things to come. She was, in a way, just getting started on her path to wider recognition.
A Star in Music: Her Vocal Gifts
Della Reese truly found fame as a gospel and jazz artist. Her vocal abilities were quite exceptional, allowing her to move between these two styles with a natural grace. She had a way of delivering a song that made it feel very personal, connecting deeply with those who heard her. Her performances were often described as powerful and full of soul, which is that, a testament to her unique artistic expression.
Her 1959 hit, “Don’t You Know,” became a widely recognized song and a signature piece for her. This particular tune really cemented her place in the music world, allowing her to reach a much broader audience. She was nominated for a Grammy award three times, in 1960, 1961, and again in 1999, which shows her enduring impact and the respect she commanded in the music industry. It’s almost as if her voice just kept getting better with time.
DHer music career spanned many years, and she was always celebrated for her distinctive sound and her ability to convey a wide range of emotions through her singing. She brought a special kind of energy to every performance, making each one a memorable experience for her audience. Her contributions to music are, in some respects, still felt today, influencing new generations of artists.
Transitioning to the Screen: Acting Success
Beyond her remarkable singing career, Della Reese also made a significant impact as an actress. Her ability to embody different characters brought her into the homes of millions through television. She appeared on various TV shows, showcasing her versatility and her natural screen presence. For instance, she was seen on programs like The Love Boat and MacGyver, which were quite popular at the time. This shift from music to acting proved she had many layers of talent, you know, something truly special.
Her transition into acting wasn't just a small side step; it became a very important part of her public identity. She brought the same warmth and authenticity to her acting roles that she did to her singing. This allowed her to connect with viewers in a new and different way, further expanding her reach and influence in the entertainment world. It’s pretty clear she had a knack for it, actually.
Touched by an Angel: A Defining Role
Della Reese found her greatest fame as an actress through her role as Tess, the wise angel, in the television drama Touched by an Angel. This CBS series, which began in 1994, centered on an angel named Monica, played by Roma Downey, and her supervisor, Tess. Their job was to deliver messages from a higher power to people who were facing challenges and needed guidance. The show quickly became a beloved program, and Della's portrayal of Tess was a big reason for its success, honestly.
Her performance as Tess resonated deeply with viewers, who saw her character as a source of comfort and wisdom. Della brought a genuine warmth and authority to the role, making Tess a memorable and cherished figure. She played this part for nine seasons, becoming a very familiar and comforting face on television screens across the country. This role, in a way, truly defined her acting career and introduced her to a whole new generation of fans.
The show's themes of faith, hope, and redemption were something Della herself embraced, as she was also a performer and a pastor. This personal connection to the material likely added to the authenticity and power of her portrayal. Her work on Touched by an Angel earned her many awards, recognizing her outstanding acting and her ability to bring such a meaningful character to life. It's almost like she was meant for that role, you know?
Later Projects and Lasting Contributions
Even after her significant run on Touched by an Angel, Della Reese continued to work in entertainment. Her final project was appearing in two episodes of the series Signed, Sealed, Delivered. In these appearances, she shared the screen with actors like Eric Mabius, Kristin Booth, and Crystal Lowe, showing that she remained active and dedicated to her craft until later in life. It’s clear she really enjoyed performing, right?
Her career was a long one, marked by a consistent presence in the public eye. She was not only a gifted singer and actress but also a pastor, which gave her another way to connect with people and offer guidance. This combination of talents and her compassionate nature left a very lasting impression on those she met and entertained. Her impact goes beyond just her performances; it includes the warmth and spirit she shared with the world, and that's something to remember.
Honors and Recognitions
Della Reese received many honors throughout her distinguished career, recognizing her immense talent and her contributions to both music and television. As mentioned, she was nominated for a Grammy three times, in 1960, 1961, and 1999, which speaks volumes about her musical prowess and her enduring appeal. These nominations show that her vocal work was consistently held in high regard across different decades. It’s pretty impressive, actually.
In 1994, Della received her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This is a very significant acknowledgment in the entertainment industry, a permanent mark of her achievements and her status as a beloved public figure. It means that her legacy is literally etched into the streets of Hollywood, a constant reminder of her impact. She truly earned that recognition, you know, for all her hard work and talent.
Beyond these formal accolades, Della Reese also received many awards for her outstanding acting, particularly for her work on Touched by an Angel. Her portrayal of Tess was widely celebrated, earning her praise from critics and audiences alike. These honors reflect the deep respect and admiration she garnered throughout her long and productive career. She was, in a way, a truly cherished figure in the entertainment world.
Remembering Della Reese: Her Passing and Legacy
To answer the question directly: No, Della Reese is not still alive. She passed away on November 19, 2017, at the age of 86. Her family and Roma Downey, her co-star from Touched by an Angel, confirmed her passing. She died at her home in Encino, California. Her departure marked the end of a remarkable life that touched many people through her music and her acting. It was a sad day for many who admired her, you know, for all she brought to the world.
Della Reese, the singer and actress who became a household name for her role as Tess on CBS's Touched by an Angel, was 86 years old when she passed. Her husband, producer Franklin Thomas Lett, who she was married to for more than 35 years, survived her. Her life was a testament to dedication and artistry, leaving behind a rich collection of work that continues to inspire. Her net worth at the time of her passing was approximately $3 million, reflecting a successful and impactful career.
Her legacy lives on through her music, her memorable acting roles, and the many lives she touched with her spirit and wisdom. She will always be remembered for her powerful voice, her comforting presence as Tess, and her unwavering faith. For more insights into her musical journey, you can explore her discography and biography. Her influence, in a way, continues to resonate, reminding us of the enduring power of art and compassion. You can also learn more about mini split air conditioners on our site, and link to this page for more information about other entertainment icons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Della Reese
Was Della Reese still alive in 2024?
No, Della Reese passed away on November 19, 2017. She has not been alive since that date, so she would not be alive in 2024. She passed away seven years ago, as a matter of fact.
How old was Della Reese when she died?
Della Reese was 86 years old when she passed away on November 19, 2017. She had lived a very full life, with many years dedicated to her career in entertainment.
What was Della Reese most known for?
Della Reese was most known for her successful singing career as a gospel and jazz artist, particularly for her 1959 hit song, “Don’t You Know.” She also gained widespread recognition for her starring role as Tess, the divine supervisor, on the beloved CBS television series Touched by an Angel. She also appeared on other TV shows, like The Love Boat and MacGyver, you know, showing her range.
Actress, Singer Della Reese Dies at 86
Actress and singer Della Reese has died at 86 | The Birmingham Times
"Touched By an Angel" Star Della Reese dies at 86
