Vivian Ridge is a name that often remains in the background when people talk about Bob Ross, the gentle painter famous for his calming voice and “happy little trees.” But Vivian was much more than just Bob Ross’s first wife—she was an artist in her own right, a supportive partner during Bob’s early career, and the mother of their son Steve Ross, who continues the family’s artistic tradition. Though Vivian preferred to live away from the public eye, her story adds important depth to the understanding of Bob Ross’s life and legacy.
Learning about Vivian Ridge helps us see the quieter, less obvious parts of a famous story, reminding us that behind every well-known figure, there are people whose influence shapes their path in meaningful ways.
Quick Bio
| Personal Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Vivian Patricia Ridge |
| Date of Birth | July 24, 1946 |
| Place of Birth | North Carolina (Winston-Salem / Wake Forest) |
| Date of Death | May 3, 2018 |
| Age at Death | Approximately 71 years |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Art History degree, Wake Forest University |
| Profession | Artist, Homemaker |
| Spouse | Bob Ross (m. 1965 – div. 1977) |
| Children | Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross |
| Height | About 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Estimated Net Worth | Approximately $1 million |
| Known Hobbies | Painting, gardening, cooking, reading, nature walks, classical music |
Early Life and Background
Vivian Ridge was born in the mid-1940s, most likely on July 24, 1946, in North Carolina. While some details about her early life are a bit unclear, what is known is that from a young age, she had a love for art. Growing up in a time and place where art was often seen as a hobby rather than a career, Vivian pursued her passion seriously. She went on to study Art History at Wake Forest University, a choice that shows her deep appreciation for art beyond just painting. This education likely gave her a solid foundation in understanding the art world and history, which would later influence not only her own art but also her support of Bob Ross as he developed his skills.
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Age and Life Span
Vivian Ridge was born on July 24, 1946, and she lived until May 3, 2018, which means she was about 71 years old when she passed away. Although some earlier reports gave different dates, most reliable sources agree on these years. Vivian spent her life quietly, focusing on her family and art until her death in North Carolina.
What Vivian Ridge Looked Like
Vivian Ridge was a tall woman, standing about 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) tall. She had brown hair and warm brown eyes. People who knew her described her as gentle and kind, with a calm and caring presence. Her height and soft demeanor made her stand out quietly, showing strength in a gentle way.
Meeting Bob Ross and Marriage
Vivian met Bob Ross sometime in the 1960s, and they married in 1965. The exact story of how they met is not widely documented, but their marriage marked a key period in Bob’s life. At this time, Bob was still serving in the Air Force and experimenting with his painting style. Vivian’s presence provided him with emotional support during these years when he was shaping what would later become his famous wet-on-wet painting technique.
Their union also brought forth their son, Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross, born in 1966, who inherited the artistic talents of both parents. Vivian’s background in art history and her own love for painting meant she understood the challenges and joys of an artist’s life, which probably helped create a supportive environment at home for Bob’s creative pursuits.
Who Is Bob Ross?
Bob Ross was an American painter, art instructor, and television personality who became widely known for his gentle voice, encouraging teaching style, and the relaxing landscapes he created on his popular show, The Joy of Painting. Born in 1942, Bob served in the Air Force before pursuing his passion for art, developing a unique wet-on-wet painting technique that allowed him to create complete paintings quickly and effortlessly.
His TV show, which aired from the early 1980s to the mid-1990s, inspired millions of people to try painting by showing that anyone could create beautiful art with patience and practice. Bob Ross’s calm demeanor, positive messages, and signature phrases like “happy little trees” helped make art accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages and backgrounds. Today, his work and personality continue to influence and bring joy to new generations through online videos and merchandise, making him a lasting cultural icon beyond his lifetime.
Vivian Ridge’s Artistic Journey
Though Vivian Ridge did not seek fame, she was an artist with her own unique style and vision. Several accounts suggest that she was a talented painter who had her own way of expressing art. Some stories even hint that she may have helped Bob in the early stages of developing the “The Joy of Painting” show, though her exact role remains unclear. After her divorce from Bob Ross in 1977, Vivian’s life took a quieter turn. Some reports say she went into real estate, showing her ability to adapt and pursue new interests beyond painting. Throughout all this, she maintained her privacy and preferred to keep her life out of the public eye, which is why so little is widely known about her artistic work or professional life after the divorce.
Motherhood and Family Life
Being a mother was a vital part of Vivian’s life. She raised Steve Ross with love and care, helping nurture his interest in painting from an early age. Steve has often spoken about how he learned from both his parents. Vivian’s knowledge of art history and her artistic insight gave Steve a rich background, while Bob Ross provided the practical techniques and television presence that made the family name famous. Vivian’s role in Steve’s upbringing was important in shaping him into the artist and instructor he is today. Even after the divorce, Steve spent much of his time with his mother, which shows the strong bond between them. This nurturing side of Vivian highlights how she quietly contributed to the ongoing artistic legacy of the Ross family.
Divorce and Later Life
The marriage between Vivian and Bob Ross ended in 1977. Their divorce is often attributed to “irreconcilable differences,” with some sources mentioning that Bob’s growing career and personal issues, including rumored infidelity, may have strained the relationship. After their separation, Vivian moved back to North Carolina, choosing a life of privacy over public attention. This retreat meant that she did not appear in Bob Ross’s later life or in his famous TV show, and she maintained very limited contact with the media. Her decision to live quietly after the divorce reflects her preference for keeping family matters private and focusing on raising her son away from the spotlight.
Later Years and Passing
Vivian Ridge passed away on May 3, 2018, after a private battle with cancer. Earlier reports about the date of her death were inconsistent, but recent accounts agree on 2018 as the year she died. She lived approximately 72 years, mostly away from public view in her later years. Her passing marked the end of a life lived quietly but meaningfully. Though she did not seek fame, her influence remains important in understanding the story behind Bob Ross’s rise to fame and the continuation of the Ross family’s artistic tradition through her son. Her life reminds us that many important stories exist behind the scenes, shaped by people who choose to support others while staying out of the limelight.
Legacy and Influence
Vivian Ridge was more than just Bob Ross’s first wife. She was a talented artist with a deep appreciation for the history and meaning behind art. Her education and passion likely helped shape Bob’s early artistic growth and provided a stable, creative home for their family. She nurtured their son Steve’s artistic development and helped pass on the family’s love for painting to the next generation. Even though she lived much of her life privately, her legacy is embedded in the success of the Ross family and the cultural impact of Bob Ross’s art.
Vivian Ridge’s Financial Background
Vivian Ridge lived a private life with no public business ventures, so her exact net worth isn’t clear. However, sources estimate it to be about one million dollars. This likely comes from assets she shared with Bob Ross during their marriage, possible inheritances, and her own modest earnings. While not wealthy like celebrities, this amount suggests she enjoyed a comfortable, middle-class lifestyle based on her family’s steady support and personal achievements.
Conclusion
Vivian Ridge may not be a household name like Bob Ross, but her life and influence are deeply important to the story behind one of America’s most beloved artists. As a talented artist, a caring mother, and a steady partner, Vivian helped shape Bob Ross’s early career and supported their son Steve’s path in art. Though she chose to live quietly away from the public eye, her love for art and family left a lasting mark on the Ross legacy. Remembering Vivian reminds us that behind every great success are often quiet, strong people whose stories deserve to be told and appreciated.
FAQs About Vivian Ridge
1. Who was Vivian Ridge?
Vivian Ridge was the first wife of Bob Ross, a talented artist herself, and the mother of their son Steve Ross. She supported Bob during his early career and helped nurture Steve’s artistic talents.
2. Did Vivian Ridge have a career in art?
Yes, Vivian studied art history and painted in her own style. Though she didn’t seek public fame, her passion for art influenced her family and possibly supported Bob Ross’s early work.
3. When did Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross get married?
They married in 1965 and were together for about twelve years before divorcing in 1977.
4. Did Vivian Ridge appear on Bob Ross’s TV show?
No, Vivian chose to stay out of the public eye and never appeared on The Joy of Painting or other public programs.
5. What happened after Vivian and Bob Ross divorced?
Vivian moved back to North Carolina with their son Steve and lived a private life, possibly working in real estate and continuing to paint quietly.
6. When did Vivian Ridge pass away?
Vivian Ridge passed away on May 3, 2018, reportedly after battling cancer.
7. Does Vivian Ridge have any social media presence?
No, Vivian Ridge never used social media or public online platforms, reflecting her preference for privacy throughout her life.
