Dolores Hope
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Dolores Hope (born May 27, 1909) is a singer, philanthropist and the widow of legendary actor Bob Hope.
She was born Dolores DeFina on May 27, 1909 in New York City and raised in the Bronx. She is of Italian and Irish descent.
During the 1930s, Dolores began her professional singing career, and changed her name to Dolores Reade upon the advice of her agent. In 1933, after appearing at the Vogue Club, a Manhattan nightclub, Dolores was introduced to Bob Hope. The couple were married in 1934 and later adopted four children: Eleanora, Anthony, Linda and Kelly.
In the 1940s, Dolores began helping Bob on his tours entertaining U.S. troops overseas and she would continue to do so for over 50 years. In 1990, she was the only female entertainer allowed to perform in Saudi Arabia.
Dolores has received several notable honors during her lifetime, including:
- A star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to live theatre.
- A street named after her in the Bronx
- A permanent installation of the Tree Peony Collection bearing her name.
- 7 Honorary Doctorates
- The President's Medal from Loyola College in Baltimore.
- The Outstanding Catholic Laywoman Award from St. Louis University
- The Elizabeth Seton Medal Award from Seton Hall College
On May 29, 2003, Dolores was at her husband's side as he celebrated his 100th birthday. Unfortunately, her husband's health declined quickly, and he passed away just a few weeks later on July 27th.[1]
Bob and Dolores were married for 69 years, which remains one of the longest-high profile marriages in Hollywood history.
Dolores was hit with more devastating news a year later, when on June 28, 2004, her adopted son Anthony died at the age of 63.
Always the optimistist, Dolores has bounced back and has remained as active as possible. On May 27, 2007, she will turn 98 years old and is reportedly in good health.
[edit] External links
- Dolores Hope at the Internet Movie Database
- Dolores Hope's biography at Bob Hope's website
