Charlie Battles was born in Okeene, Oklahoma, in 1945. He grew up on a cattle ranch and developed a love of the land and the animals at an early age. After graduating from high school, he attended Oklahoma State University, where he studied agriculture.
After college, Battles returned to his family’s ranch and began working full-time. He quickly became a successful cattle rancher, and his ranch became one of the most respected in the state. In addition to his ranching business, Battles also started his own company, Charlie Battles Cattle Company. He was also the first husband of country music star Reba McEntire.
In the world of country music, Reba McEntire stands as a true icon. Her powerful voice, captivating stage presence, and enduring career have made her a beloved figure in the industry. But before the fame, fortune, and legendary music, Reba McEntire’s love story had its beginnings with her first husband, Charlie Battles.
A Love Born in Rodeo
Reba Nell McEntire, born on March 28, 1955, in McAlester, Oklahoma, was destined to shine. Growing up on a cattle ranch, she developed a deep love for rodeo. It was during her rodeo days that she crossed paths with Charlie Battles, a charismatic steer wrestler. Their fateful meeting took place at the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in Oklahoma City in the late 1970s.
The connection between Reba and Charlie was immediate and magnetic. Charlie’s rugged charm and Reba’s vivacious spirit made them a dynamic pair. Their shared love for rodeo and the rural way of life laid the foundation for a passionate romance.
The Cowboy and the Country Star
Reba and Charlie’s love story took a significant turn when they decided to tie the knot. On June 21, 1976, they exchanged vows and became husband and wife. It was a joyous occasion, marked by the union of two young souls deeply in love.
Their union also marked a turning point in Reba’s life. As she began her journey in the country music industry, Charlie stood firmly by her side. He was not just a husband but a pillar of support, a believer in her talent, and a source of encouragement. Charlie’s unwavering faith in Reba helped her navigate the challenging early years of her career.
The Challenges of Fame and Marriage
As Reba’s star began to rise in the world of country music, their marriage faced the challenges of fame, a demanding schedule, and the pressures of the entertainment industry. Reba’s career was taking off, and she spent a significant amount of time on the road, performing at concerts and making appearances.
The strain of their increasingly divergent paths eventually took its toll on their relationship. In 1987, after more than a decade of marriage, Reba and Charlie made the difficult decision to part ways. They officially divorced, marking the end of their marriage.
A Shared Love for Their Children
While their romantic journey came to an end, Reba and Charlie shared a deep and enduring love for their son, Shelby Steven McEntire Blackstock. Born on February 23, 1990, Shelby became the focus of their co-parenting efforts.
Reba and Charlie remained dedicated parents, prioritizing their son’s well-being and happiness above all else. Their unwavering commitment to providing a stable and loving environment for Shelby demonstrated the depth of their love, even in the face of personal challenges.
Charlie Battles: A Chapter in Reba’s Life Story
While Reba McEntire’s marriage to Charlie Battles may have come to an end, it remains a significant chapter in her life’s story. Their love story, born in the world of rodeo and nurtured through the early years of her music career, is a testament to the complexities of love, marriage, and the pursuit of dreams.
Reba’s journey through fame, heartbreak, and resilience has been an inspiration to her fans. Her enduring spirit and determination to pursue her dreams, even in the face of personal challenges, have endeared her to generations of country music enthusiasts.
Reba McEntire and Charlie Battles’ Divorce: A Sad End to a Love Story
Reba McEntire and Charlie Battles were married for 11 years, from 1976 to 1987. The marriage began to crumble as McEntire’s career took off. She was traveling all the time, and Battles felt like he was being left behind. He also felt like she was putting her career ahead of their marriage.
In 1987, McEntire filed for divorce. The split was very public and very acrimonious. There were rumors of infidelity and financial problems. The divorce was finalized in 1988.
The divorce was a difficult time for both McEntire and Battles. They both spoke out about the pain and heartbreak they were going through. However, they eventually moved on with their lives. McEntire married Narvel Blackstock in 1989, and they had a son together. Battles remarried in 1992 and had two sons with his second wife.
The divorce between Reba McEntire and Charlie Battles was a sad end to a love story. However, both McEntire and Battles eventually found happiness again. They both went on to have successful careers and raise families.
Conclusion
Charlie Battles will always be remembered as a part of Reba McEntire’s journey. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a supportive friend. He helped her to achieve her dreams, and he will always be remembered as a part of her story.
The legacy of Charlie Battles and Reba McEntire will continue to inspire people for many years to come. They were a couple who loved each other deeply, and they were willing to fight for their love, even when things were tough. Their story is a testament to the power of love, and it is a reminder that anything is possible if you have the courage to follow your dreams.
