Perry Como's Wife: What Happened To Roselle

Hey guys, let's dive into the life of Perry Como's wife, Roselle.

The Enduring Love Story of Perry and Roselle Como

When we talk about Perry Como, we often think of his smooth voice and iconic songs that soundtracked a generation. But behind every great star, there's often a story of love and partnership, and for Perry, that was undoubtedly Roselle.

Roselle Belline Como wasn't just Perry's wife; she was his childhood sweetheart and his rock for over six decades. Their love story began in their hometown of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania. Can you imagine? They met when Perry was just 13 and Roselle was 11! Talk about a love that stood the test of time. They were married on July 28, 1933, and remained together until Roselle's passing. This wasn't just a marriage; it was a lifelong commitment that weathered the storms of fame, fortune, and the inevitable challenges that come with such a public life. Their bond was incredibly strong, a testament to their shared values and deep affection for one another. Many in Hollywood and the music industry faced breakups and divorces, but Perry and Roselle's enduring partnership was a rare and beautiful thing. They raised four children together: Ronnie, David, Terri, and Jeff. The family was always a priority for Perry, and Roselle was instrumental in keeping the family grounded amidst the whirlwind of Perry's career. She was the steady hand, the quiet support, and the loving matriarch. It's easy to focus on the performer, the hit songs, and the television specials, but the foundation of Perry's success was undeniably his stable home life, and that was largely due to Roselle.

Early Life and Marriage

Roselle was born on February 1, 1915. Her early life, like Perry's, was rooted in the Italian-American community of Canonsburg. This shared background undoubtedly played a significant role in their strong connection. Growing up together, they shared the same cultural influences, family values, and a sense of community that would shape their future. Their marriage in 1933, when Perry was just 20 and Roselle was 18, was a humble affair, reflecting their down-to-earth nature. It's remarkable to think that at a time when Perry's musical aspirations were just beginning to take flight, he had Roselle by his side, supporting his dreams. She wasn't just a wife; she was a partner in every sense of the word. While Perry was traveling for performances and recording sessions, Roselle managed their home and children, creating a stable and loving environment. This allowed Perry to focus on his career, knowing his family was well taken care of. Her quiet strength and dedication were the bedrock of their family life. She provided the much-needed normalcy and stability that often eludes those in the spotlight. Their long marriage, spanning over six decades, is a remarkable achievement in itself, but it's even more impressive considering the pressures of fame. They navigated the highs and lows together, always presenting a united front. Their enduring love story serves as an inspiration, a reminder that true partnership can withstand the test of time and the glare of the public eye.

Roselle's Role Behind the Scenes

While Perry Como was the face of his success, Roselle Como was the quiet force behind the scenes. It's common for the partners of famous individuals to remain largely out of the spotlight, and Roselle was no exception. However, her influence on Perry's career and personal life was profound. She was his confidante, his advisor, and his biggest cheerleader. In the early days, when Perry was still trying to make a name for himself, Roselle's unwavering belief in his talent was crucial. She encouraged him to pursue his passion for music, even when it meant financial uncertainty. As his career blossomed, she managed the domestic side of their lives with grace and efficiency. This allowed Perry to concentrate on his performances, recordings, and television shows, knowing that his family was in good hands. Many artists struggle to balance their demanding careers with their personal lives, but the Comos seemed to have found a harmonious rhythm, largely thanks to Roselle's organizational skills and her dedication to family. She ensured that despite Perry's fame, their home remained a sanctuary, a place where their children could grow up in a loving and supportive environment. She was the anchor that kept Perry grounded, preventing the excesses that often accompany sudden fame. Her presence was a constant reminder of where he came from and what truly mattered. Even as Perry's fame reached international heights, Roselle remained the steady, grounding influence. She was not one for the limelight, preferring to support her husband from the comfort of their home. This quiet dedication is often overlooked but is essential to understanding the longevity and stability of Perry Como's career and personal life. Her wisdom and perspective were invaluable to Perry, and it's widely believed that he often sought her opinion on important career decisions. She was more than just a wife; she was a trusted partner whose insights helped shape his journey.

The Later Years and Roselle's Passing

As Perry Como and Roselle Como aged, their bond only seemed to deepen. They had shared so much – the dizzying heights of fame, the birth of their children, the quiet joys of family life, and the inevitable sorrows that life brings. After decades of marriage and a lifetime spent supporting Perry, Roselle's health began to decline. The public often saw Perry continuing his musical endeavors, sometimes performing with his signature relaxed style, but behind the scenes, Roselle was facing her own battles. Their love story, which began in childhood, was drawing to a close. Roselle passed away on March 13, 2013, at the age of 98. Her death was a profound loss for Perry and their entire family. Even though Perry was 100 years old at the time of her passing, the loss of his lifelong partner was immense. They had been married for an astonishing 77 years, a marriage that began in humble circumstances and endured through immense fame and change. It's hard to fathom the depth of their connection after nearly eight decades together. Imagine the memories, the shared laughter, the quiet moments of understanding. Roselle's passing marked the end of an era for Perry. While he continued to live for a few more years, it's undeniable that her absence left a significant void. The strength of their relationship was evident in how they supported each other through the years, and her loss would have been deeply felt. Their story is a powerful reminder of the enduring nature of love and commitment. Roselle was laid to rest in the family plot in St. Benedict's Cemetery in Newark, New Jersey. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and the countless memories she created with Perry and their family. She was a woman of strength, grace, and unwavering love, the true backbone of the legendary Perry Como's life.

Conclusion: A Love That Transcended Fame

So, to answer the question, is Perry Como's wife still alive? No, Roselle Belline Como passed away on March 13, 2013. She lived a long and full life, sharing nearly eight decades of marriage with the iconic singer, Perry Como. Their story is one of true partnership, enduring love, and quiet strength. While Perry graced the world with his music, Roselle was the silent architect of his personal happiness and stability. She was the childhood sweetheart who became the lifelong companion, the mother, and the confidante. Her influence was immeasurable, providing the grounding that allowed Perry's star to shine so brightly for so long. Their journey from Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, to international stardom is a testament to their unwavering bond. Roselle wasn't just a wife; she was the heart of the Como family. Her legacy isn't found in chart-topping hits, but in the enduring love she shared and the stable family life she cultivated. She proved that even in the glitz and glamour of show business, genuine love and commitment can not only survive but thrive. We remember Roselle Belline Como not just as Perry Como's wife, but as a remarkable woman who built a lasting legacy of love and family. What a beautiful testament to a life well-lived and a love story for the ages, guys!