The name Charlie Battles may not immediately ring a bell for many, but those versed in country music history or rodeo sports would recognize him. This blog post takes you on a journey through the life of Charlie Battles; his early years, his marriages, and his indomitable spirit that kept him going until his last breath.
Charlie’s life was a blend of triumphs and trials, but above all, it was a testament to his perseverance and strength.
Who Was Charlie Battles?
Born on March 9, 1945, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Charlie Battles was a man of grit and determination. His journey began in the small town of Talala, where he was raised by his mother and grandparents. He later served in the U.S Army as an Armor Intelligence Specialist from 1962 to 1965 before earning an honorable discharge.
From the military, Charlie shifted gears to the rodeo arena, where he left an indelible mark as a three-time champion in the IRA Rodeo Association’s Steer Wrestling competition.
Early Life and Family Background
Charlie’s early years in Talala, Oklahoma, shaped his character and resilience. His mother and grandparents instilled in him the values of hard work and dedication, which reflected in his success as a rodeo participant.
The rodeo arena was his playground and his battlefield, where he battled against all odds to become a champion steer wrestler in 1968, 1970, and 1971. His passion for the sport led him to qualify for the PRCA National Finals in 1974, marking another milestone in his career.
First Wife and Children
In the midst of his rodeo career, Charlie’s personal life took a significant turn when he married country singer Reba McEntire in 1976. The couple had two sons, Lance and Coty. However, the marriage ended in divorce in 1987.
Despite the end of their marriage, they both continued to excel in their respective careers, with Reba achieving remarkable success in the country music scene.
Reba McEntire: The Second Wife
Reba McEntire, popularly known as “the Queen of Country,” was Charlie’s second wife. She was already making waves in the country music scene when they tied the knot. With over 75 million records sold worldwide and more than 100 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, Reba’s fame grew exponentially during their marriage.
Although their marriage ended in a divorce, Charlie’s association with Reba brought him into limelight, and he continued to support her throughout her career.
His Education:
Charlie Battles, a name that resonates deeply within the life story of the iconic country singer, Reba McEntire. A crucial part of her journey, Battles’ early life and education played a pivotal role in shaping him. Born in the heart of Oklahoma, Battles was raised in a traditional environment. His parents were hardworking ranchers, instilling in him a deep respect for the land and its ways.
Battles’ education was rooted in the same values. He attended a local school, where he excelled both academically and in sports. His teachers admired his dedication, and his peers respected his tenacity. This was the foundation on which the character of Charlie Battles was built, a character that would later become a household name.
His time in school was not just about academics. It was also a period of learning and understanding the nuances of ranch life. His hands-on experience on his parents’ ranch was an education in itself. It taught him the importance of hard work, resilience, and a strong work ethic. These lessons shaped him into the man he became, a man who would make his mark in the world.
Professional Career:
Post his schooling, Charlie Battles took the path that was familiar yet challenging. He followed in his parents’ footsteps and became a cattle rancher, managing a sprawling 3,000-acre ranch in Oklahoma. It was a demanding job, requiring physical strength, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of cattle rearing.
Battles’ dedication to his work was apparent. His ranch thrived under his management, becoming one of the most successful in the region. His reputation as a top-notch rancher grew, and so did his influence in the ranching community.
Apart from his ranching career, Battles also gained recognition as the husband of the country music star, Reba McEntire. Their union brought him into the limelight, but Battles remained a man grounded in his roots. Despite the fame and glamour, he continued to be a steadfast rancher at heart.
His Achievement in War:
Charlie Battles was not just a rancher and the husband of a superstar. He was also a war hero. During the Vietnam War, Battles served in the United States Army. His bravery and commitment to his nation were commendable, earning him a place of honor among his comrades.
Battles’ time in the war was a testament to his courage and resilience. He faced the adversities of war with a brave heart, always putting his duty before himself. His service in the army added another facet to his life, one that spoke of heroism and strength.
Charlie Battles’ life was a blend of diverse experiences. From being a dedicated student and a successful rancher to a war hero, he left a lasting impact in every role he played. His life story is a testament to his grit, determination, and the values that were instilled in him during his education. He indeed was a man of honor, a man who lived life on his terms.
Conclusion
Charlie Battles passed away on April 21, 2013, due to heart failure and complications from a stroke. After his divorce from Reba, Charlie continued his rodeo career and later bought a PRCA rodeo livestock company in 1995. He remarried in 1998 to Donna Granger and relocated to Sulphur, Louisiana, where Donna cared for him after a major stroke left him totally disabled in 2006.
Charlie Battles’ life was a testament to his resilience, determination, and passion. He was a man who wore many hats – a military veteran, a champion rodeo participant, and a supportive husband.
His journey and legacy continue to inspire many, reminding us that life is a rodeo, where we must face the bulls head-on and rise above the challenges. Despite the highs and lows, Charlie Battles remained true to his name, battling on until the very end.
