Hey there! Let's dive into the incredible financial journey of Della Reese, the trailblazing entertainer, and how her net worth evolved over seven decades of success. From gospel stages to Hollywood's brightest lights, she wasn’t just a performer—she built a lasting financial legacy that continues to inspire.
Her wealth came from a variety of sources, including music royalties, acting salaries, television hosting, ministry, and savvy real estate investments. Let’s explore how she managed to build such a substantial fortune while leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the numbers behind her success, the strategies she used to grow her wealth, and the legacy she left behind. So, buckle up and let’s uncover the fascinating story of Della Reese’s financial journey!
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Table of Contents
Della Reese Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Delloreese Patricia Early |
| Popular Name | Della Reese |
| Birth Date | July 6, 1931 |
| Age | 86 (Died: November 19, 2017) |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American, Cherokee ancestry |
| Education | Cass Technical High School, Wayne State University (Dropped out) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Franklin Lett (m. 1983–2017), Leroy Gray (m. 1959–1961), Vermont Taliaferro (m. 1951–1958) |
| Children | 4 including Deloreese Daniels, Dominique Reese |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | 5 older sisters, 1 brother |
| Parents | Richard Thaddeus Early, Nellie Mitchelle |
| Height (meters) | 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) |
| Net Worth | $8 million |
| Source of Wealth | Music, Television, Acting, Ministry, Real Estate |
Della Reese's Net Worth in 2025?
So, just how much did Della Reese leave behind? At the time of her passing in 2017, her net worth was estimated to be around $8 million. While we don’t have updated figures for 2025, her estate continues to hold significant value in the world of celebrity wealth rankings.
Compared to other figures in entertainment and ministry, Della stood out not only for her talent but also for her financial acumen. Her wealth came from a diverse mix of sources, including music, acting, television hosting, ministry, and real estate. Her iconic role as Tess on Touched by an Angel and her successful music career helped cement her status as both a cultural and financial icon.
Throughout her career, she worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including CBS, Franklin Lett Jr., Jubilee Records, RCA Victor, Mahalia Jackson, Roma Downey, Brilliance, Eddie Murphy, Mercer Ellington, and Queen Latifah. These collaborations helped shape not only her career but also her financial landscape.
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If you’re curious about other influential personalities in entertainment who left a lasting impact, be sure to explore more stories of those who shaped the industry and its financial landscape.
Della Reese Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did She Build Her Wealth Over Seven Decades?
Della Reese’s financial journey began in the world of gospel music. Performing alongside legends like Mahalia Jackson, she honed her craft and eventually joined the Meditation Singers. By the 1950s, she made the leap into secular music, scoring her first big hit with And That Reminds Me, which sold over a million copies.
Her career skyrocketed with the 1959 hit Don’t You Know?, which earned gold certification and solidified her place in the music industry. Transitioning into television during the 1960s, she made appearances on iconic shows like The Ed Sullivan Show
