Berry Gordy's Love Life: The Story Behind His Three Marriages

Let me tell you the incredible story of Berry Gordy, the man who shaped Motown into a powerhouse. This isn't just a tale of music; it's about love, life, and legacy. Berry's career skyrocketed as he worked alongside some of the biggest names in music history, including The Jackson 5, whose hits like "I Want You Back" and "ABC" became anthems. Despite his incredible success, Berry faced the ups and downs of personal relationships over more than six decades in the music business.

Before Berry became a household name, he tried boxing in the early '50s. But life took an unexpected turn when he was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Once he returned home, Berry found love with Thelma Coleman. They tied the knot in 1953, and together, they had three beautiful children: Hazel Joy Gordy, Berry Gordy IV, and Terry James Gordy. But like many great love stories, theirs had its challenges, and the couple parted ways in 1959.

Berry's journey into music history began in 1957 when he met soul singer Jackie Wilson. This meeting marked the start of a fruitful partnership, with Jackie recording Berry's song "Reet Petite." Shortly after, Berry crossed paths with Smokey Robinson, who inspired him to start his own record label. Little did he know at the time just how monumental that decision would become.

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In a 2017 interview with Billboard, Berry shared his early aspirations: “When I started out, all I wanted to do was write some songs, make some money and get some girls — not necessarily in that order, which was not unlike the majority of the guys in my neighborhood.” His early songs often reflected his personal experiences, like "Money (That’s What I Want)," written during a time when he was struggling financially.

Berry's personal life continued to evolve as he married his second wife, Raynoma Singleton, in 1960. Together, they welcomed a son, Kerry Gordy, but their marriage ended in 1964. Berry then married Grace Eaton in 1990, and though their marriage lasted only until 1993, they celebrated their union with a star-studded wedding in Santa Barbara, featuring none other than the legendary Michael Jackson among the guests. Along the way, Berry also fathered several children from other relationships, including actress Rhonda Ross with Diana Ross, Sherry Gordy with Jeana Jackson, Kennedy William Gordy with Margaret Norton, and Redfoo (Stefan Kendal Gordy) with producer Nancy Leiviska.

Thelma Coleman: The Beginning of Berry's Love Story

Thelma Coleman was Berry's first wife, a chapter in his life that's often overshadowed by his later achievements. At the time of their marriage, Berry was just beginning to build Motown into the empire we know today. While details about their relationship remain sparse, it's clear that Thelma played a significant role in Berry's early years, supporting him as he laid the groundwork for his musical legacy.

Berry Gordy’s Second Marriage: Raynoma Singleton

Raynoma Singleton was not just another chapter in Berry's life; she was a talented producer and songwriter who auditioned in front of him in the late '50s. Impressed by her skills, Berry brought her into his inner circle to help assemble a group of background vocalists. Their collaboration soon blossomed into love, leading to their marriage. Raynoma already had a son, Cliff Liles, from a previous relationship. After their divorce, Raynoma moved on with Eddie Singleton, with whom she had two more children, William Edward Singleton Jr. and Rya Singleton. Tragically, Raynoma passed away in November 2016 after a battle with brain cancer.

Berry Gordy's Third Marriage: Grace Eaton

Grace Eaton entered Berry's life in the early '90s, and they were married in 1990. Although their marriage was brief, lasting only three years, it was marked by privacy and intimacy. The couple attended several red carpet events together, surrounded by the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Their wedding in Santa Barbara was a star-studded affair, featuring friends and colleagues from Berry's illustrious career, including the late Michael Jackson. Despite their short time together, Grace remains an important part of Berry's story, symbolizing the enduring connections that shape a lifetime.