Vivian Ridge is best known as the first wife of Bob Ross. She lived a life mostly away from the spotlight. But her presence alongside Bob during his early years matters. She shaped part of the foundation that led to ‘The Joy of Painting’ and the legend that followed. 

In this article, we will discuss Vivian Ridge’s early life, marriage to Bob Ross, her role as a mother and the enduring legacy afterwards.  

If you are interested in learning more about her, keep reading to gain a clearer picture of Vivian Ridge’s story.

Who Is Vivian Ridge?

Her full name is Vivian Patricia Ridge. Vivian was born on 29 October 1942 in Wake Forest, North Carolina. She is said to have taken up painting in her youth. Art history is listed in numerous biographical profiles as one of the subjects she studied at Wake Forest University. 

These bits suggest she had both formal and informal exposure to art. But beyond that, public records don’t clearly map her childhood, family, or early works.

Vivian Ridge Age 

Being born in 1942, Vivian Ridge would have been in her late seventies if she was alive today. She passed away on 3 May 2018 and she was 79 years old at the time of her passing. 

Vivian Ridge’s Career Journey  

Vivian’s career journey is not widely known and there are no public records that show her employment or fame in the art world. She enjoys Painting, gardening, and has creative hobbies that showcase her artistic expressions.  

She often painted alongside Bob Ross, offering support and inspiration during his early journey. While she may not have pursued a widely documented profession, her creativity and influence contributed meaningfully to the Ross family’s artistic legacy.

Marriage To Bob Ross

Vivian Ridge married Bob Ross in 1965. Their marriage lasted about twelve years, until 1977. Bob Ross was building his skills during these years. The time is considered formative for his later television art career. Vivian was part of that chapter.

Life After Divorce

Vivian and Bob divorced in 1977. Reports say the split was due to irreconcilable differences. After the divorce, Vivian mostly stayed out of public view. Very few interviews or public records mention her later. 

There is disagreement in some sources about whether she remarried or what her profession was afterward. Some say she continued art; others are less certain. 

Vivian’s Role As A Mother 

In 1966, Vivian and Bob had a son, Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross. Steve grew up to follow some of his father’s footsteps. He learned art and painting techniques. 

Even though Steve had challenges later regarding his father’s legacy, his early years were shaped by both parents. 

Legacy & Influence

Although Vivian Ridge is not widely known, she played an important role. She was present during Bob Ross’s early life before he became famous. She supported raising Steve, who became an artist too. 

Vivian’s influence may not be documented in galleries or shows, but in her family’s story. Many fans of Bob Ross wonder about her because she is connected to his early foundation. 

In A Nutshell 

Vivian Ridge may not be well-known to all. But she was Bob Ross’s first wife and mother to Steve Ross. Her life remains partly a mystery, and what she did after her marriage is barely documented. 

Still, her presence had meaning for the Ross family story. Though many details are unknown, her connection to Bob and Steve shows that those out of the spotlight still shape legacies.

FAQs 

Who was Vivian Ridge?

Vivian Ridge was the first wife of Bob Ross.

When did Vivian Ridge die?

She passed away on May 3, 2018, at the age of 79. 

Did Vivian Ridge have a career?

Vivian loved painting, gardening, and creative work. She often painted with Bob Ross.

Did Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross have children?

Yes. They had one son, Steve Ross.