Vivian Ridge was an American artist and the first wife of Bob Ross, the famous painter known for his calm voice and “happy little trees.” While Bob became a TV star loved by millions, Vivian chose to live a quiet life away from cameras. Her story is not well known, but she played an important role in Bob’s early life and career. In this article, we will explore Vivian Ridge’s life, her marriage to Bob Ross, their son Steve, and what happened after their divorce.
Quick Bio Table
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Vivian Ridge |
| Known As | Bob Ross’s First Wife |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Artist, Painter |
| Education | Wake Forest University (Art History) |
| Spouse | Bob Ross (married 1965–1977) |
| Children | Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross |
| Son’s Birth Date | August 1, 1966 |
| Years Married | 12 years |
| Status | Deceased |
Early Life and Education
Vivian Ridge grew up in the United States and showed a love for art from a young age. She started painting as a hobby when she was just 12 years old. Her parents supported her interest in art and encouraged her to follow her dreams.
Vivian was a bright student who enjoyed learning about art and nature. She decided to study art history at Wake Forest University. It was during her time at university that she met Bob Ross, a young man who also loved painting. They shared the same passion for art, which brought them closer together.
Marriage to Bob Ross
Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross got married in 1965. At that time, Bob was serving in the United States Air Force. He was not yet the famous TV painter that millions would come to love. Their early years together were filled with the challenges that come with military life, including moving to different places.
Despite these difficulties, Vivian and Bob supported each other. They both loved art, and this shared interest made their bond stronger. Vivian was there for Bob during the important years when he was developing his painting skills.
On August 1, 1966, the couple welcomed their son, Robert Stephen Ross. He is better known today as Steve Ross. Like his parents, Steve grew up to become a talented painter.
The Divorce
Sadly, Vivian and Bob’s marriage did not last forever. After being together for 12 years, they divorced in 1977. The exact reasons for their split were never shared publicly. Some reports say they had differences they could not resolve. Other sources mention that Bob may have been unfaithful, but neither Vivian nor Bob ever confirmed this.
After the divorce, their son Steve stayed with his mother for some time. Later, he moved to live with his father. Bob Ross went on to marry two more times. His second wife was Jane Lee, a fellow painter who became his business partner. She passed away from cancer in 1992. Bob married his third wife, Lynda Brown, in 1995, just two months before his own death.
Life After Bob Ross
After her divorce from Bob, Vivian Ridge chose to stay out of the public eye. She did not give interviews or seek attention. Instead, she focused on her private life and continued her love for art.
Vivian moved on quietly and lived a simple life. She remained close to her son Steve and watched him grow into a successful artist. Her choice to stay private shows that she valued peace and quiet over fame.
While Bob Ross became a household name through his TV show “The Joy of Painting”, Vivian preferred a different path. She did not want the spotlight that came with being connected to a famous person.
Her Son Steve Ross
Steve Ross is perhaps Vivian’s greatest legacy. Born in 1966, Steve inherited his parents’ artistic talents. He learned painting from his father and became a certified instructor in the wet-on-wet technique that Bob Ross made famous.
Steve appeared on “The Joy of Painting” several times. In the first season’s final episode, he helped his father by reading questions from viewers. Bob Ross often said that Steve was a better painter than himself.
After Bob Ross died in 1995, Steve faced legal battles over his father’s name and image. For many years, he could not paint publicly because of these issues. However, things have improved, and Steve now continues to paint and teach, keeping his family’s artistic tradition alive.
Vivian Ridge’s Death
Details about Vivian Ridge’s death are not clear. Different sources give different information about when she passed away. What we do know is that she is no longer alive. She lived her final years quietly, just as she had always wanted.
Her legacy lives on through her son Steve, who carries forward the family’s love for painting.
Conclusion
Vivian Ridge may not be as famous as her ex-husband Bob Ross, but she was an important part of his story. She supported him during his early years and raised their son Steve, who continues the family’s artistic legacy today.
While Vivian chose privacy over fame, her influence can still be seen in the Ross family’s love for art. Her quiet strength and dedication to her son remind us that not everyone needs the spotlight to make a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who was Vivian Ridge?
Vivian Ridge was an American artist and the first wife of famous painter Bob Ross. They were married from 1965 to 1977 and had one son together named Steve Ross.
2. How long were Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross married?
Vivian and Bob Ross were married for 12 years. They got married in 1965 and divorced in 1977.
3. Did Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross have children?
Yes, they had one son named Robert Stephen Ross, born on August 1, 1966. He goes by the name Steve Ross and is also a painter.
4. Why did Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross divorce?
The exact reasons were never made public. Reports suggest they had differences they could not work out. Neither Vivian nor Bob spoke about their divorce publicly.
5. Is Vivian Ridge still alive?
No, Vivian Ridge has passed away. The exact date of her death is not publicly known, as she lived a very private life.
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