Maria Cole, born on January 8, 1922 in North Carolina, was the daughter of Mingo and Carol Hawkins. She was also the niece of the renowned writer and teacher Charlotte Hawkins Brown. Despite being born in North Carolina, Maria was raised in Massachusetts, where she spent her formative years.
Maria Cole was not just known as the wife of Nat King Cole and the mother of Natalie Cole, but also for her own impressive music career. In her early days, she had the privilege of singing alongside legends such as Duke Ellington and Count Basie. Maria and Nat King Cole first crossed paths during a joint vocal performance at the Zanzibar club, marking the beginning of a beautiful relationship.
Maria Cole had a colorful personal life, characterized by love and loss. Her first marriage was to Spurgeon Ellington, a Tuskegee Airman. Together, they navigated the challenges of life before eventually parting ways. Maria's second marriage, to Nat King Cole, brought forth a blended family. They raised adopted children named Carole and Kelly, along with their biological children Natalie, Timolin, and Casey.
Tragically, Maria Cole battled cancer in her later years, ultimately succumbing to the illness in Florida when she was in her late eighties. After Nat King Cole's passing, Maria found love again in screenwriter and producer Gary DeVore, whom she married in her third union.
Maria Cole left behind a lasting legacy in the music industry and in the hearts of those who knew her. Her marriage to Nat King Cole solidified her place in music history, and her contributions as a jazz musician showcased her talent and passion for the art form. Maria's family continues to honor her memory, with Natalie Cole following in her mother's musical footsteps and carving out her own successful career.
Maria Cole's life was a testament to resilience, love, and the power of music. She may have been known as the wife of a legend, but Maria's own talents and achievements set her apart in her own right. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of following one's passions and embracing the journey, no matter where it may lead.