At the heart of a story filled with fame, love, tragedy, and legacy lies Delores Martes Jackson. She was born on April 1, 1955, in Los Angeles, California, and later became the wife of Tito Jackson, one of the original members of The Jackson 5. Their marriage began in June 1972, and together they had three sons: Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, who later formed the popular music group 3T. Although her life was not as publicized as the Jackson family’s, her story holds a deep emotional impact, from her early life to her tragic death and lasting legacy.
Quick Bio of Delores Vilma “Dee Dee” Martes Jackson
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Delores Vilma “Dee Dee” Martes Jackson |
| Nickname | Dee Dee Jackson |
| Date of Birth | April 1, 1955 |
| Place of Birth | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Homemaker, Philanthropic Influence |
| Famous For | Being Tito Jackson’s first wife and mother of 3T |
| Spouse | Tito Jackson (m. 1972 – div. 1988) |
| Children | Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson |
| Date of Death | August 27, 1994 |
| Place of Death | Ladera Heights, California, USA |
| Cause of Death | Homicide (Drowning) |
| Legacy | Dee Dee Jackson Foundation for grief support and healing |
Early Life of Delores Martes Jackson
Delores Martes Jackson grew up in a modest household in Los Angeles. Not much is documented about her childhood, but those who knew her described her as kind, warm, and deeply family-oriented. She attended Fairfax High School, where she met Tito Jackson. Their connection grew strong quickly, and even though they were still teenagers, their love story would soon tie Delores to one of the most famous musical families in history.
Marriage to Tito Jackson
In June 1972, Delores married Tito Jackson at the young age of 17, while Tito was 18. Their marriage placed her directly in the public spotlight, surrounded by fame, world tours, and the media attention that followed The Jackson 5. Despite the glamour of her new family, Delores Martes Jackson preferred to live a private and simple life, focusing on her husband and children rather than the entertainment industry.
During their early years, the Jackson family was at the height of fame. Delores supported her husband while managing the responsibilities of being a young wife and mother. She often stayed out of the public eye, balancing her personal life with the pressures of being part of such an influential family.
Family and Children
The couple shared three sons Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson. All three inherited their father’s musical talent and formed the successful R&B group 3T in the early 1990s. Songs like Anything and Why, featuring Michael Jackson, helped the group gain worldwide attention.
Delores Martes Jackson played a central role in raising her sons. Friends and family recall her as a dedicated mother who always placed her children’s well-being above everything else. Her nurturing presence helped shape their discipline, humility, and values, qualities that continue to define them today.
Divorce and Life After Separation
After sixteen years of marriage, Delores Martes Jackson and Tito Jackson divorced in 1988. The reasons behind their separation were kept private, but they maintained a respectful co-parenting relationship. Tito often expressed admiration for Delores’s strength as a mother, even after their split.
Despite their divorce, the family remained closely connected. Delores frequently attended events involving her children and kept her distance from the celebrity spotlight. She continued to build her own life while ensuring her sons had a strong foundation for their future careers.
The Tragic Night of August 27, 1994
On August 27, 1994, tragedy struck when Delores Martes Jackson was found lifeless in the swimming pool of her boyfriend, Donald Bohana, in Ladera Heights, California. At first, her death was ruled an accidental drowning. However, investigators soon discovered bruises and injuries that raised suspicions about what had really happened.
The Jackson family immediately voiced doubts about the initial ruling. Her sons and ex-husband insisted that Delores was not a strong swimmer and was afraid of deep water. The investigation was reopened, leading to shocking revelations that would change the case forever.
The Murder Trial of Donald Bohana
In 1998, Donald Bohana was convicted of second-degree murder in the death of Delores Martes Jackson. The prosecution argued that an argument between the two had escalated, resulting in Delores being forcibly held underwater. He was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison.
The Jackson family publicly expressed relief after the verdict, saying justice had been served. However, they also acknowledged that no court ruling could ever replace their loss. Over the years, Bohana maintained his innocence, claiming the incident was a tragic accident. After serving more than two decades, he was finally paroled in 2022.
Legacy and The Dee Dee Jackson Foundation
To honor her memory, Delores’s family and sons created the Dee Dee Jackson Foundation (DDJF). The organization helps people who are coping with grief, particularly children and families who have lost loved ones. The foundation uses music therapy, community events, and counseling programs to promote healing through art and emotional connection.
Through DDJF, Delores Martes Jackson’s spirit of kindness and care continues to inspire others. Her sons also host a podcast called Power of Love, which discusses emotional healing, loss, and personal growth all in tribute to their late mother.
Remembering the Woman Behind the Name
While she was once known mainly as Tito Jackson’s ex-wife, Delores Martes Jackson has become more than a footnote in music history. She was a mother, a friend, and a compassionate woman who touched the lives of those around her. Her sons often speak about how her love and guidance shaped their lives and careers.
The Jackson family has also acknowledged Delores as a strong influence who helped keep the family grounded during the height of their fame. Her tragic death left a lasting scar, but her memory continues to be celebrated by her children and fans alike.
Influence on Her Sons’ Lives
After her passing, her sons often spoke about how deeply the loss affected them. Taj Jackson once described his mother as “the glue that kept everything together.” Her death motivated them to use their platform to raise awareness about grief and healing. TJ Jackson, now a father himself, has said he tries to pass his mother’s compassion and values on to his own children.
Their dedication to their mother’s memory is evident not only through their foundation but also through their personal actions. Each son continues to speak about the lessons learned from Delores Martes Jackson, ensuring that her influence will never fade.
Impact on the Jackson Family Legacy
The story of Delores Martes Jackson is woven into the larger tapestry of the Jackson family. Though she was not a performer, her presence helped shape the next generation of Jackson musicians. The family often remembers her as a loving, grounded woman who balanced the world of fame with genuine care and strength.
In interviews, Tito Jackson has described how difficult it was to lose Delores and how it changed the lives of everyone in the family. He has stood beside their sons in supporting the Dee Dee Jackson Foundation, ensuring that her memory is honored through action and kindness.
Lessons from Her Life
Delores Martes Jackson’s life teaches several important lessons. It shows the value of love, the strength of family, and the reality that fame cannot protect against personal pain. Her story also reminds us that even lives cut short can leave a powerful legacy. Through her children and their charitable work, she continues to bring light to others even decades after her passing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who was Delores Martes Jackson?
Delores Martes Jackson was the first wife of Tito Jackson, a member of The Jackson 5, and the mother of his three sons Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson.
2. How did Delores Martes Jackson die?
She tragically died on August 27, 1994, in Ladera Heights, California. Her boyfriend, Donald Bohana, was later convicted of her murder by drowning.
3. What is the Dee Dee Jackson Foundation?
The Dee Dee Jackson Foundation (DDJF) was founded by her sons to help people overcome grief and emotional pain through music and community programs.
4. Who are Delores Martes Jackson’s children?
Her three sons Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson are members of the R&B group 3T, known for songs like Anything and Why.
5. What is Delores Martes Jackson remembered for today?
She’s remembered as a loving mother, kind-hearted woman, and a strong influence on the Jackson family’s next generation. Her legacy lives on through her children and the DDJF.
Conclusion
The story of Delores Martes Jackson is one of love, tragedy, and remembrance. From her early years in Los Angeles to her marriage to Tito Jackson, and her role as the devoted mother of 3T, her life had both joy and hardship. Her tragic death in 1994 remains one of the most heart-breaking chapters in the Jackson family history. Yet, her strength and compassion continue to live on through her sons and the Dee Dee Jackson Foundation.
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