When we talk about Helen Reddy, the first thing that comes to mind is her iconic anthem, "I Am Woman." But there’s so much more to her story than just the music. This powerhouse from Down Under had a life filled with love, heartbreak, and resilience. You might not know that Helen was married three times throughout her storied career—to Kenneth Weate, Jeff Wald, and Milton Ruth. Let’s dive into her remarkable journey and explore the loves of her life.
A First Marriage That Sparked a Lifetime Bond
Helen Reddy first walked down the aisle in 1961 with Kenneth Weate, a musician who would become her partner in both love and music. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Traci Donat, into the world. But life isn’t always a fairy tale, and their marriage was far from smooth sailing. By 1966, the couple decided to call it quits, finalizing their divorce early that year. Despite the split, Helen always held a special place in her heart for Kenneth, crediting him for giving her one of her greatest treasures—Traci.
During an interview with The New York Times years later, Helen reflected on her first marriage, calling it “a very brief, very tempestuous affair.” It’s clear that while the relationship didn’t last, it left an indelible mark on her life and career.
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Love at First Sight with Jeff Wald
Just when you think love might be done with you, fate steps in. Helen found herself swept off her feet again in October 1966, this time by Jeff Wald. Their meeting was anything but ordinary. It happened at a party thrown by a close friend who charged guests $5 for admission. Jeff, being the free spirit he was, crashed the celebration without paying a cent—but it didn’t matter because it was love at first sight for Helen.
“[Jeff] didn’t pay the $5 dollars, but it was love at first sight,” Helen once gushed to People magazine in 1975. The connection was instant, and within months, the two were exchanging vows. Their union brought another joy into Helen’s life—their son, Jordan Sommers, born in 1972. For nearly two decades, Helen and Jeff navigated life together, building a family and sharing experiences that shaped them both.
When Love Takes Another Turn
Unfortunately, even the strongest relationships can face challenges. After 18 years of marriage, Helen and Jeff decided to part ways in 1983. But life has a way of surprising us, and Helen wasn’t done with love yet. Shortly after her divorce, she found herself drawn to Milton Ruth, a drummer who would become her third husband.
A New Chapter with Milton Ruth
Helen and Milton tied the knot later in 1983, bringing a fresh chapter into Helen’s life. While they didn’t have children together, Milton embraced his role as stepdad to Traci and Jordan with open arms. For almost 12 years, the couple built a life filled with laughter, music, and memories. But as with her previous marriages, this one also came to an end in 1995. Still, the bond they shared was undeniable, and Milton remained an important part of Helen’s world.
Legacy and Love Beyond the Stage
Helen Reddy’s life wasn’t just defined by her music—it was also shaped by her roles as a mother, grandmother, and partner. She embraced these roles with the same passion and strength that made her a household name. Tragically, Helen passed away in September 2020 at the age of 78, just five years after being diagnosed with dementia. Her children, Traci and Jordan, shared a heartfelt message following her passing.
“She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, and a truly formidable woman,” the statement read. “Our hearts are broken. But we take comfort in the knowledge that her voice will live on forever.”
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Even in her later years, Helen continued to inspire those around her. Just weeks before her death, her teenage granddaughter, Lily Donat, revealed that Helen was still happy and singing. “She’s still singing,” Lily told Closer Weekly, offering a glimpse into the enduring spirit of this legendary performer.
Scroll through the gallery below to learn all about Helen’s ex-husbands and the impact they had on her life.
