In the world of country music, Reba McEntire is a household name. But before she became a superstar, she was married to Charlie Battles, a champion steer wrestler and her first love.
This is the story of Charlie Battles – his life, career, marriage to Reba, and lasting impact.
Who Was Charlie Battles?
Charlie Battles was born on July 19, 1945 in Seminole, Oklahoma. A talented athlete from a young age, Charlie discovered his passion for rodeo early on. He quickly made a name for himself on the professional rodeo circuit, especially in steer wrestling.
Standing 6 feet tall with rugged good looks, Charlie was the quintessential cowboy. His charm, humor and zest for life drew people to him. But more than just a skilled rodeo competitor, Charlie was also a savvy businessman who ran a successful cattle ranch operation.
Early Life And Background
Growing up in rural Oklahoma, Charlie was one of five children born to a hard-working ranching family. Life revolved around cattle, horses and the cowboy way. Charlie loved the ranching lifestyle and decided early on to make his living in rodeo.
After graduating high school, Charlie hit the rodeo circuit full-time. His natural talent in the arena, especially in steer wrestling, quickly became apparent. Charlie worked tirelessly to hone his skills. Long hours of practice combined with his competitive drive and athletic ability propelled him to the top ranks of the sport.
Career in Rodeo And Cattle Ranching
Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Charlie was a dominant force in professional rodeo. He specialized in steer wrestling, an event that requires strength, precise timing and lightning-quick reflexes. Charlie won numerous championships and set records in the sport.When not on the road competing, Charlie ran a thriving cattle ranching business.
He took great pride in raising top-quality livestock. Charlie’s knowledge of cattle genetics, grazing practices and ranch management made his operation one of the most respected in Oklahoma.
Relationship Aith Reba McEntire
In 1976, Charlie met a young barrel racer named Reba McEntire at a rodeo. Reba was just beginning her country music career and was drawn to Charlie’s cowboy charisma. Despite their 10-year age difference, the two hit it off immediately.
Charlie and Reba began dating and the relationship quickly became serious. Reba credited Charlie with helping her navigate the challenges of the music industry. He was a constant source of support and encouragement as her career began taking off.
Marriage And Life Together
Charlie Battles and Reba McEntire tied the knot on June 21, 1976 in Stringtown, Oklahoma. She was 21 and he was 31. The couple settled into ranch life together as Reba continued to pursue her music career. Over the next decade, Reba’s star rose meteorically as she scored hit after hit on the country charts. Charlie continued to compete in rodeo and manage their cattle business. Balancing their busy careers with marriage wasn’t always easy, but their bond seemed unbreakable.
During their marriage, Charlie and Reba built a sprawling 7,000 acre ranch in Chockie, Oklahoma. The ranch became their sanctuary away from the bright lights of fame. Reba even filmed several of her music videos on the picturesque property.
Divorce and Its Aftermath
After 11 years of marriage, Reba and Charlie divorced in 1987. The demands of two high-powered careers had taken a toll. Reba’s grueling touring schedule kept them apart for long stretches. The fairy tale romance had fractured under the stress.
The divorce devastated Reba and sent her into a depression. Charlie retreated to ranch life. Eventually, both moved on. Reba continued her meteoric rise to become the “Queen of Country.” Charlie married Donna Granger in 1988 and had two daughters.
Later Years and Personal Life
Charlie Battles continued ranching and team roping for many years after his divorce from Reba. He built a new life with second wife Donna and daughters Christi and Stacie on their ranch in Stratford, Oklahoma.In 2006, Charlie suffered a debilitating stroke that left him partially paralyzed. He faced the challenges of his recovery with the same strength and determination that defined his rodeo career. Donna was his faithful caregiver during his final years.
Legacy and Influence
Charlie Battles passed away on January 31, 2013 at the age of 68 from heart failure and stroke complications. He left behind a legacy as a rodeo legend, successful rancher, and larger-than-life personality who lived the cowboy way.For Reba McEntire, Charlie was her first great love and a defining part of her early life and career. The lessons she learned from Charlie about hard work, perseverance and staying true to your roots shaped the woman and artist she became.
Final Words
The story of Charlie Battles is a quintessentially American tale of a cowboy who lived life on his own terms. His impact on the worlds of rodeo and ranching is undeniable. But Charlie will perhaps be best remembered as the man who captured the heart of a young Oklahoma girl named Reba who went on to become a country music icon.
Though their marriage ended, the influence Charlie had on Reba endured. His cowboy spirit, zest for life, and down-to-earth wisdom stayed with her. In many ways, Charlie Battles will forever remain Reba McEntire’s first love and most important life teacher.