July 6 …

Della Reese was a multifaceted American singer, actress, and television host whose dynamic career spanned over six decades, leaving a lasting impact on American entertainment, culture, and society.

With her powerful voice, charismatic presence, and groundbreaking roles, Reese emerged as a trailblazer for African American women in the entertainment industry, breaking down barriers of race and gender while establishing a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of performers.

Born on July 6, 1931 in Detroit, MI, Reese’s musical talent was evident from an early age, nurtured by her gospel and church music background. She attended the University of Detroit before embarking on a music career that would eventually lead her to the bright lights of Hollywood.

Her diverse musical influences, ranging from gospel to jazz and pop, shaped her versatile singing style, making her a sought-after performer. Her big break came in the 1950s when she shared the stage with gospel legend Mahalia Jackson, eventually signing with major recording labels. Inspired by vocalists like Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan, Reese cultivated a smooth, yet powerful voice that resonated with audiences across various genres.

Reese’s career extended beyond music as she successfully transitioned into acting, becoming one of the first African American women to portray strong, complex characters in film and television. Her role as Tess, the celestial guide in the hit series Touched by an Angel, catapulted her to fame and garnered widespread acclaim.

Reese’s ability to intertwine comedy, drama, and spirituality made her a beloved figure to millions, while the show served as a platform for addressing social and moral issues and promoting messages of compassion and hope. She also starred in films such as Harlem Nights alongside Eddie Murphy, and The Preacher’s Wife with Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston, solidifying her status as an iconic presence in both film and television.

Throughout her illustrious career, Reese drew inspiration from the leading voices in music and film, crediting figures like Nat King Cole, Mahalia Jackson, and Dinah Washington as key influences on her artistry. Her contemporaries, such as Lena Horne and Pearl Bailey, worked alongside Reese to redefine the roles available to Black women in entertainment during the mid-20th century.

Navigating the industry with grace and resilience, Reese became a mentor and inspiration for younger performers like Whitney Houston, with whom she later shared the screen. Additionally, her role as a public figure allowed her to advocate for civil rights and promote messages of empowerment, compassion, and faith.

Over the years, Reese received numerous awards and accolades, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, several NAACP Image Awards, and a Golden Globe nomination for her role in Touched by an Angel. She was also recognized for her remarkable contributions to music, particularly in gospel and jazz, and for being one of the first African American women to host a successful national talk show, Della, in the 1960s.

The legacy of Della Reese as a pioneering African American artist and actress is cemented not only by her extraordinary talent but also by the lasting impact she made in dismantling racial and gender barriers in entertainment, leaving a powerful and enduring mark on the cultural landscape of America.