James Westley Welch: The Untold Story of Raquel Welch’s First Husband

James Westley Welch is a name that often comes up when we talk about Raquel Welch, one of Hollywood’s most iconic stars. He was not just her first husband but also her first great love. Their story is not like the usual Hollywood tales filled with fame and glamor. It started as a simple teenage romance, and for Raquel, James was the man she compared all her future partners to.

In this article, we will look at the life of James Westley Welch, from his early days to his love story with Raquel. We’ll talk about their marriage, children, and the challenges they faced as young parents. We’ll also explore how James built his own life outside of the Hollywood spotlight. Let’s start with who James Westley Welch really was.

James Westley Welch Quick Bio

Who Was James Westley Welch?

James Westley Welch, also known as Jim, was more than just Raquel’s high school sweetheart. He was a private man who lived a life very different from the glitz of Hollywood. Born on January 29, 1937, in Missouri, James grew up in a regular American family. While Raquel went on to become a global icon, James preferred a life away from fame and attention.

What made him stand out during his youth was his charm and confidence. He had dark hair, striking green eyes, and a quiet personality that attracted Raquel when they first met. Despite not being famous, James played a huge role in Raquel’s early life and dreams.

Early Life and Family Background

James was raised by his parents, Hiriam Joseph Welch and Doris Latanne Hilburn, in Pike, Missouri. He had a simple childhood that focused on family values and hard work. As a teenager, he was known for his adventurous spirit and love for the ocean.

He was not the kind of boy who enjoyed books and classrooms. In fact, he often preferred outdoor activities and hands-on work. Later, this love for adventure would take him on a journey as a tuna fisherman, a job that gave him stories to tell and shaped his strong character.

James Westley Welch’s Life Before Fame and Career Start

Before his connection with Raquel brought him into the public eye, James lived a modest life. In his teenage years, he worked hard to support himself and his family. His early job as a tuna fisherman was tough but exciting. He even joined a fishing crew that traveled to places like Peru, which was quite rare for a young man at that time.

After some years, James started working as a publicist and agent, helping companies and brands grow their name. Later, he built a career in real estate development and became successful, but he never liked being in the spotlight. He preferred to let his achievements speak quietly for him.

The High School Love Story

The love story of James Westley Welch and Raquel Welch began when they were just teenagers. They met in their American government class at La Jolla High School when both were 15. Raquel later wrote in her memoir that from the moment she saw him, she believed they were meant to be together.

James, who already had a car — a rare thing for a boy in high school — often gave Raquel rides to school. For a young girl who dreamed of romance, this felt like something out of a movie. Their favorite song was “You Send Me” by Sam Cooke, and they would often sing along to it during their late-night drives.

They didn’t have a lot in common, but they shared moments that felt magical. After football games, they would grab burgers and shakes, and dance the night away. Their young love was simple, intense, and full of dreams.

James Westley Welch’s Marriage to Raquel Welch

Their relationship continued even after high school. James took off for a few months to work as a tuna fisherman in Peru, but when he returned, Raquel couldn’t resist his charm. She was studying theater arts at San Diego State College, but she dropped out to marry him.

The couple got married on May 8, 1959, in Las Vegas. It was not a big Hollywood wedding but a simple and heartfelt moment. Raquel’s father was not happy with her decision, but her heart was set on James. At that time, Raquel was still far from being the famous star we know today.

Children and Family Life

Not long after their wedding, Raquel and James became parents. Their first child, Damon Welch, was born on November 6, 1959. Just two years later, their daughter Latanne “Tahnee” Welch was born on December 26, 1961. Raquel named her daughter after James’s mother, which shows how close she was to his family.

Raquel was busy with modeling and weather girl jobs while also being a young mom. James worked hard to provide for the family, but their lives started to move in different directions. Raquel had big dreams of becoming an actress, while James preferred a simpler life.

Challenges in Their Marriage

As Raquel’s career started to grow, tension began to build in their marriage. James struggled with the attention Raquel was getting, and Raquel found it hard to balance her career with family life. In her own words, she admitted that she loved James deeply but also needed to follow her own dreams.

By 1962, the couple decided to separate. It was not an easy choice, but Raquel felt it was the only way she could focus on her future. Two years later, in 1964, their divorce was finalized. Raquel kept the surname “Welch,” which would later become world-famous.

Divorce and Life After Raquel

After their divorce in 1964, James Westley Welch quietly moved on with his life. He stayed away from the Hollywood spotlight and chose a more private path. While Raquel was climbing the ladder of fame with movies like Fantastic Voyage and One Million Years B.C., James focused on building a stable and successful career.

He eventually remarried a woman named Jean, and together they had a son. Unlike his first marriage, this chapter of his life remained private. James preferred a quiet and simple life rather than living under constant media attention.

James Westley Welch’s Career Achievements and Success

James Westley Welch found great success in the world of business after his split from Raquel. He moved from being a publicist to becoming a real estate developer, which made him a wealthy man. According to reports, his hard work paid off, and he built a fortune through smart property investments.

While Raquel was known for her beauty and talent, James earned respect for his determination and work ethic. He was not interested in fame or interviews. For him, success meant living life on his own terms, away from the chaos of Hollywood.

Reunion After 15 Years

Even though James and Raquel had gone their separate ways, their story was not completely over. In 1977, James reached out to Raquel so he could meet their children, Damon and Tahnee, after 15 years. It was a long-awaited reunion that brought both joy and mixed emotions.

Raquel was happy to see that James was doing well. They spent their time talking about their children and their futures. It was a moment of respect and closure for both of them. The past was not the focus anymore — instead, they both looked forward to supporting their children’s lives and careers.

Final Years and Passing

James Westley Welch lived most of his later years quietly, far from the public eye. He had no interest in being famous, even though his connection with Raquel kept his name alive in Hollywood stories.

On November 23, 2019, James passed away peacefully at the age of 82. He left behind his children, grandchildren, and a life story that was unique in its own way. While he was not a movie star, his impact on Raquel Welch’s life and his own accomplishments made him a man worth remembering.

Raquel Welch’s Later Marriages

After her divorce from James, Raquel married three more times. She married film producer Patrick Curtis in 1967, but the marriage ended in 1972. Later, she tied the knot with producer André Weinfeld in 1980, and they were together for ten years. Her final marriage was to businessman Richie Palmer in 1999, which ended in 2008.

Despite these relationships, Raquel admitted that James Westley Welch was her first and most unforgettable love. She passed away on February 15, 2023, at the age of 82, leaving behind a legendary career and a lasting legacy in Hollywood.

Final Thoughts

James Westley Welch might not be a household name, but his story is important because it shows a different side of Raquel’s life. He was there during her early struggles and dreams, before she became a Hollywood icon. Their love story, though short, was full of passion and memories that stayed with her forever.

His children, Damon and Tahnee, also carry forward his legacy. Tahnee became an actress and model, while Damon built his own path in life. Through them, James remains connected to the world of film and entertainment, even after his passing.

(FAQs)

How many times was Raquel Welch married, and who were her husbands?

Raquel Welch was married four times. Her husbands were James Westley Welch (1959–1964), Patrick Curtis (1967–1972), André Weinfeld (1980–1990), and Richie Palmer (1999–2008).

Is James Westley Welch still alive?

No, James Westley Welch passed away on November 23, 2019, at the age of 82.

What was James Westley Welch’s profession?

James worked as a publicist and agent, and later became a successful real estate developer who built a multimillion-dollar business.

What was the cause of James Westley Welch’s death?

James Westley Welch died of natural causes after living a quiet life away from the public eye.

How many children did James Westley Welch have?

James had three children: Damon Welch and Tahnee Welch (with Raquel), and one son from his second marriage to Jean.

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