Della Reese: A Journey of Music, Acting, and Spiritual Leadership

Della Reese, born Delloreese Patricia Early on July 6, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, was an iconic American nightclub, jazz, gospel, and pop singer, film and television actress, talk-show hostess, and ordained minister. Her illustrious career spanned over six decades, during which she became a household name, particularly for her role as a smoky-voiced angel in the TV series “Touched By An Angel” (1994-2003). Reese’s multifaceted life was deeply influenced by her Human Design, which shaped her path as a Generator with a Sacral Inner Authority. Her Strategy was to respond, and she carried the Profile of 5/1 with the Incarnation Cross of the Left Angle Cross of Individualism.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

As the youngest of six children, Reese’s musical journey began early. She was singing in the choir at her local Baptist church by the age of six. Her Generator type and Sacral Inner Authority allowed her to respond to opportunities with a natural enthusiasm and dedication. At 13, Reese caught the attention of gospel diva Mahalia Jackson, who hired her to tour with her troupe. During these transformative summers, Reese not only honed her singing skills but also faced the harsh realities of racial prejudice.

Reese’s Profile of 5/1—known as the Heretic Investigator—drove her to seek truth and understanding in her life experiences, which later influenced her spiritual teachings. With the money she saved from touring, she enrolled at Wayne State University in 1947, only to leave the following year due to her mother’s untimely death. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of her independent journey, as she moved out in 1949, facing the world with the strategic response of her Generator design.

Building a Musical Career

In the early days of her career, Reese faced challenges with resilience—a trait amplified by her Incarnation Cross of Individualism, which encouraged her to stand out and embrace her uniqueness. At 19, she trimmed down from 230 pounds by losing 90 pounds, demonstrating the determination and vigor of her Sacral energy. Her breakthrough came when she won a club engagement contest, which catapulted her into the spotlight as a nightclub singer.

By 1954, Reese had secured her first record contract, and three years later, she released the hit “And That Reminds Me,” selling over a million copies. Her success was further cemented with appearances on the Ed Sullivan Show and performances in Las Vegas. Her Human Design channels, including “17-62” (the Channel of Acceptance) and “57-34” (the Channel of Power), guided her artistic expression and powerful stage presence.

Television and Film Career

Reese expanded her talents to television and film, with notable roles in TV sitcoms such as “Chico and the Man” and “Charlie & Co.,” as well as films like “Harlem Nights” (1980). Her knack for connecting with audiences was a testament to her Profile’s inherent ability to project and communicate profound insights.

The Channel “25-51” (the Channel of Initiation) in her Human Design chart manifested in her ability to initiate new ventures and take on challenging roles. This channel, often associated with courage and competitiveness, enabled Reese to break barriers and redefine herself continually throughout her career.

Spiritual Journey and Ministry

A graduate of a divinity school in Chicago, Reese’s spiritual journey was deeply intertwined with her artistic one. Despite her success, she found herself disenchanted with traditional religious teachings. Seeking a more personal connection to spirituality, she prayed for guidance, and according to her Sacral Authority, she responded to her inner calling to become a minister.

In 1983, Reese established the Understanding Principles for Better Living Church in Los Angeles, California, becoming its esteemed minister. Her sermons, filled with wisdom and inspiration, were a reflection of her Human Design’s Left Angle Cross of Individualism, encouraging others to embrace their unique paths.

Personal Life and Legacy

Della Reese’s personal life was as rich as her professional one. She met her third husband, producer Franklin Lett, Jr., in 1978, and they married in 1983. Despite her demanding schedule, Reese was committed to her family, including her adopted daughter, Deloreese Daniels, and adopted son, James Barger.

Reese’s later years were marked by health challenges, including type-2 diabetes and two serious brain surgeries. Despite these struggles, she continued to inspire those around her with her strength and resilience—a testament to her Generator energy and unwavering spirit.

On November 19, 2017, Della Reese passed away at her home in Encino, California. Her legacy as a talented artist and spiritual leader continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the power of responding to life’s opportunities with authenticity and courage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Della Reese’s Human Design?

Della Reese was a Generator with a Sacral Inner Authority. Her Strategy was to respond to life’s opportunities, and she had a 5/1 Profile, known as the Heretic Investigator. Her Incarnation Cross was the Left Angle Cross of Individualism.

How did Della Reese’s Human Design influence her career?

Reese’s Human Design influenced her career by guiding her through her innate ability to respond to opportunities, stand out, and embrace her unique path. Her channels, such as the Channel of Acceptance and Channel of Power, enhanced her artistic expression and stage presence, while her Profile and Incarnation Cross encouraged her to seek truth and inspire others.

What was Della Reese’s role in “Touched By An Angel”?

Della Reese is best remembered for her role as a smoky-voiced angel in the TV series “Touched By An Angel,” which aired from 1994 to 2003. Her performance and the show’s inspirational message resonated deeply with audiences, making it a Nielsen Top 20 hit.

Did Della Reese have a family?

Yes, Della Reese was married to producer Franklin Lett, Jr., and had a family that included her adopted daughter, Deloreese Daniels, and adopted son, James Barger. She balanced her career with her commitment to her loved ones.

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