Where Is Vivian Ridge Now? The Untold Story of Bob Ross’s First Wife
Vivian Ridge is a name that many fans of Bob Ross might recognize, but very few know much about. As the first wife of the legendary painter, Vivian played a formative role in his early years before quietly stepping out of the spotlight. This article explores her life in depth from her background and personal story to her lasting legacy, despite living most of her life away from fame.
Quick Profile
Attribute | Detail |
---|---|
Full Name | Vivian Patricia Ridge |
Date of Birth | October 29, 1942 |
Date of Death | May 3, 2018 |
Height | Approx. 6 ft 2 in |
Eye Color | Brown |
Hair Color | Medium Brown |
Spouse | Bob Ross (m. 1965–1977) |
Child | Steve Ross |
Nationality | American |
Profession | Artist (private) |
Social Media | None |
Net Worth (Est.) | Around $1 million |
A Quiet Beginning
Vivian Patricia Ridge was born on October 29, 1942, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Growing up in the American South, she lived a quiet childhood far removed from the world of television stardom that she would later be indirectly connected to. Not much is publicly known about her early family life or parents, but sources suggest she had a conventional upbringing with a strong appreciation for education and the arts.
She later attended Wake Forest University, where she studied Art History. It was during this time that her artistic interests began to flourish. Her calm demeanor and quiet love for creativity made her well-liked by peers, and it was also during this time that she met a fellow student who would one day become a household name: Bob Ross.
Meeting Bob Ross and Starting a Family
Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross married in 1965, a pivotal year for both their personal lives and Ross’s future career. The couple initially lived a modest life, often relocating due to Ross’s career in the United States Air Force. Their marriage gave birth to Steve Ross, born on August 1, 1966. Steve would later follow in his father’s artistic footsteps and become a talented painter in his own right.
In the early years of their marriage, Vivian was a source of emotional support for Bob. She reportedly encouraged his passion for painting while balancing the duties of raising their son. However, despite their shared interests, cracks began to show in the relationship.