Charlie Battles was a well-known figure in the rodeo world. He was famous for his talent and hard work in the sport, especially in steer wrestling. But Charlie’s influence went beyond the rodeo arena, and he was respected in many areas of life. He also became known for his marriage to country music star Reba McEntire. His story is one of dedication, passion, and a strong connection to the cowboy way of life.
Who Is Charlie Battles?
Charlie Battles was born on March 9, 1945 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He grew up on a cattle ranch, which instilled in him a deep love for the land and animals.
Battles went on to become a successful rodeo contractor. He was well-respected and admired by those in the rodeo circuit for his hard work and leadership.
Charlie Battles Early Life & Family
Not much is publicly known about Charlie Battles’ early life and family. He was raised on an Oklahoma cattle ranch, which shaped his character and values.
The ranch life taught Battles the importance of hard work, responsibility, and respect for nature. These qualities would serve him well throughout his rodeo career.
Charlie Battles Wrestling Career
While he is best known for his work in the rodeo industry, Charlie Battles was also married to a famous figure – country singer Reba McEntire.
Battles and McEntire were married, although the exact timeline of their relationship is unclear based on available sources. Their marriage ended in divorce.
Sadly, Charlie Battles suffered a stroke in 2006. The stroke led to complications, and Battles ultimately passed away from heart failure on April 21, 2013.
He was 68 years old at the time of his death. Battles left behind a legacy of kindness, leadership and hard work.
Many in the rodeo community and beyond expressed their condolences after his passing. They remembered him as a man of strong character who positively impacted many lives.
Married Life With Reba McEntire
In 1976, Charlie Battles tied the knot with a young and upcoming country singer named Reba McEntire. The two had met while participating in the rodeo circuit, a passion they both shared. Their marriage lasted for 11 years, during which time Reba’s career really started to take off.
While the couple eventually divorced in 1987, Reba has spoken fondly of Charlie and the role he played in her life during their time together. She has credited him with helping her navigate the early days of her career and being a source of support and encouragement.
The Divorce
After 11 years of marriage, Charlie and Reba divorced in 1987. The split was amicable, with both parties citing the pressures of Reba’s skyrocketing career as a major factor. Despite the end of their romantic relationship, the two remained on good terms in the years following their divorce.
Reba has been open about the challenges of balancing her personal life with the demands of stardom. She has said that the divorce was a difficult but necessary decision for both her and Charlie. In the end, they were able to part ways while still maintaining a level of respect and fondness for one another.
Life After Reba
Following his divorce from Reba, Charlie Battles continued to work in the rodeo industry that he loved so much. He was a respected figure in the rodeo world, known for his skills as a steer wrestler and his work as a rodeo contractor.
Even after his marriage to Reba ended, Charlie remained close with her family, particularly her father Clark. The two men shared a bond that went beyond Charlie’s relationship with Reba, and they continued to work together in the rodeo business for many years.
Throughout his life, Charlie was known for his strong work ethic, his love of the land and animals, and his kind and gentle spirit. He made a lasting impact on those who knew him and worked with him in the rodeo community.
A Tragic End
Sadly, Charlie Battles passed away on April 21, 2013, at the age of 68. His death was attributed to heart failure and complications from a stroke he had suffered several years prior, in 2006.
News of Charlie’s passing was met with an outpouring of grief and fond remembrances from those who knew him. Reba expressed her sadness at the loss, calling Charlie a “wonderful man” and expressing gratitude for the time they had shared together.
In the rodeo community, Charlie was remembered as a talented and respected figure who had made significant contributions to the sport. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the impact he made in the world of rodeo.
Conclusion
Charlie Battles was a well-respected person in the rodeo world, known for his skill, hard work, and leadership. He made a lasting impact in steer wrestling and as a rodeo contractor. His marriage to Reba McEntire brought him more recognition, and even though they eventually divorced, he continued to support her early career. Charlie was remembered for his strong work ethic, love for the land and animals, and kind nature. His legacy lives on in the rodeo community and in the hearts of those who knew him.
