Who Was Vivian Ridge? The Hidden Story of Bob Ross’s First Love

When people hear the name Bob Ross, they often think of his soft voice, kind words, and beautiful paintings of “happy little trees.” But did you know that before Bob became famous, there was someone special by his side? That person was Vivian Ridge — Bob Ross’s first love and first wife.

In this article, we will talk about Vivian Ridge. We’ll look at who she was, how she met Bob, their life together, and what happened to her later. Her story is important because she was part of Bob’s journey before the world knew his name. Let’s explore the hidden story of Vivian Ridge.

Vivian Ridge Quick Bio

Vivian Ridge’s Early Life

Vivian Ridge was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, in the United States. This city is known for its rich culture and history. It’s a place that might inspire anyone who loves art. Sadly, not much is known about her family or childhood. But what we do know is that Vivian found her love for painting when she was just a little girl.

Imagine a 12-year-old girl sitting outside, trying to paint the world around her. That was Vivian. Even as a child, she felt joy in using colors to show what she saw and felt. This love for art stayed with her as she grew up. It helped guide her choices in life, including where she went to school.

Vivian’s Education

Vivian wanted to learn more about the art she loved. So, after finishing school, she went to Wake Forest University. There, she studied Art History. This means she didn’t just learn to paint — she learned about the stories behind famous art and artists. She wanted to understand how art has changed the world.

While studying, Vivian kept practicing her own painting. She enjoyed making soft, beautiful landscapes, much like the style that Bob Ross would later become famous for. Can you picture her sitting quietly with a paintbrush, creating peaceful scenes of nature? That’s how she spent many happy hours during her school years.

How Vivian Ridge Met Bob Ross

Now, you might be wondering — how did Vivian and Bob’s paths cross? While no one knows the exact moment they met, it is believed that they found each other during their young adult years, possibly while Vivian was still in school. Both shared a deep love for art, and that common passion brought them closer.

Think about it — two young people who both loved to paint, who both enjoyed quiet moments with a canvas and brush. It’s easy to see how they would connect. They would spend time together, talk about art, and support each other’s dreams. It must have felt like they were perfect for each other.

Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross’s Marriage

Vivian and Bob’s love grew stronger, and in 1965, they decided to get married. This was a big step for both of them. They were young and full of hope, ready to build a life together. At that time, Bob was still in the United States Air Force, and he had not yet become the famous painter we know today.

During their early years of marriage, they supported each other’s goals. Bob worked hard in the military, while Vivian continued to paint and share her love of art. Together, they dreamed of a simple, happy life filled with creativity. It was a time of teamwork and hope.

Their Son, Steve Ross

In 1966, something even more joyful happened. Vivian and Bob welcomed a baby boy into their lives — Robert Stephen Ross, who everyone calls Steve Ross. Steve became the center of their world. Both parents shared their love of art with him as he grew.

Steve was lucky to grow up in a home where art was all around him. He learned to paint by watching his parents. He saw how his dad and mom used color and brushstrokes to create beauty. This early experience would shape his own future as a talented painter, just like his parents.

Why Vivian and Bob Ross Got Divorced

At first, Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross seemed like the perfect pair. But, as time went on, things began to change. Bob’s career was growing, and he was spending more time focused on his work. The happy, quiet life they once shared started to feel different.

In 1977, after 12 years of marriage, Vivian and Bob decided to end their relationship. It was said that Bob’s unfaithfulness played a big role in their divorce. Like many couples, they found that love alone wasn’t enough to hold them together. It was a sad time for both of them. Even though they went their separate ways, they still cared about their son, Steve.

Vivian Ridge’s Life After the Divorce

After her divorce from Bob Ross, Vivian Ridge chose to step away from the public eye. She lived a quiet life, focusing on her own path. Vivian did not remarry or seek fame. She preferred peace and privacy.

Sadly, little is known about her final years. What we do know is that she passed away some years after the divorce. The exact date and cause of her death have not been shared with the public. Just like she lived quietly, she left this world quietly too. But her memory lives on, especially through her son.

What is Steve Ross doing now?

Steve Ross grew up surrounded by art thanks to both his parents. After his mother passed, he spent more time with his father. Bob raised him as a single dad, and Steve often joined Bob on his famous show, The Joy of Painting.

Steve learned the special painting style that made his father famous. Today, Steve teaches others how to paint, just like his parents did. When you see his work, you can feel the love for art that started with Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross. Steve keeps their legacy alive, one brushstroke at a time.

Bob Ross’s Life After Vivian

After parting ways with Vivian, Bob Ross found love again. He married Jane Lee Zanardelli in 1977. Jane became not just his wife, but also his business partner. Together, they worked to build Bob’s art empire. Sadly, Jane died of cancer in 1992.

Later, Bob married Lynda Brown in 1995, just two months before he passed away. Bob’s life was full of ups and downs. But through it all, art remained at the center of his world.

Vivian Ridge’s Role in Bob Ross’s Success

Even though Vivian Ridge stayed out of the spotlight, her role in Bob’s life was important. She stood by him during his early years, when he was just starting to dream big. She was there during the days when Bob was still figuring out his path.

Sometimes, the people who help us at the start don’t stay with us forever. But that doesn’t mean their part in the story isn’t special. Vivian’s quiet support helped shape Bob into the artist and teacher we all remember today.

Where Is Vivian Ridge Now?

Vivian Ridge is no longer with us. She passed away quietly, far from fame or attention. There are no public records that share exactly when or how she died. But what we do know is that her life mattered.

Her love of art, her kind heart, and her role as Bob Ross’s first wife are all part of a story that continues through Steve Ross. Vivian Ridge may be gone, but her spirit lives on in every painting that brings joy to the world.

Final Thoughts

Vivian Ridge’s story shows us that not all heroes are in the spotlight. Sometimes, the most important people are the ones who help build the dreams of others. Without Vivian, Bob’s journey might have been very different.

Today, when we watch old episodes of The Joy of Painting or see Steve Ross share his skills, we can remember the quiet woman who helped start it all. Vivian Ridge was more than Bob Ross’s first love — she was part of the foundation of a beautiful art legacy.

(FAQs)

Who was Bob Ross’s first wife?

Bob Ross’s first wife was Vivian Ridge, an artist who shared his love for painting. Many people don’t know that she was with him long before he became famous.

Is Vivian Ridge still alive?

No, Vivian Ridge is not alive. She passed away quietly some years after her divorce from Bob Ross. The exact details of her death were never made public.

When was Vivian Ridge born, and how old was she when she died?

Vivian Ridge was born on July 2, 1946. She was about 71 or 72 years old when she died, though the exact date of her passing remains a mystery.

Did Vivian Ridge have any children?

Yes! Vivian and Bob Ross had one son, Steve Ross. Steve followed in their footsteps and became a painter and teacher, just like his parents.

What was the cause of Vivian Ridge’s death?

Shockingly, no one knows for sure. The cause of Vivian Ridge’s death was never shared with the public, adding to the mystery of her private life.