As the powerhouse lead vocalist of the legendary soul group The O'Jays, Eddie Levert spent decades defining the sound of Philadelphia soul. Hits like "For the Love of Money" and "Use to Be My Girl" turned his voice into a global standard, yet his private life remained largely shielded from the constant glare of the spotlight. Fans frequently look for details regarding his personal journey, particularly his marriages, family life, and the enduring relationships that shaped him off the stage.
Behind the chart-topping records and legendary live performances lies a complex family history marked by profound triumphs and devastating personal tragedies. From his long-term marriage to Martha Levert to his later life with his current wife, Jalice Jackson, Levert's personal path offers a window into the man behind the music. Examining his romantic history and family dynamics provides a clear picture of how he navigated decades in the entertainment industry while maintaining a private sanctuary at home.
The Early Marriages and Family Foundations
Long before achieving global superstardom with The O'Jays, Eddie Levert established roots in Canton, Ohio, before moving to Cleveland where the iconic vocal group originally formed as The Triumphs in 1958. As his career ascended through the 1970s under Philadelphia International Records, his personal life grew as well.
His first major marriage was to Martha Levert. Together, they raised a family that included his gifted sons, Gerald Levert and Sean Levert, both of whom followed in their father's footsteps to become prominent R&B stars in their own right as members of the group LeVert. While Eddie and Martha's marriage eventually ended in divorce, they shared a profound musical and parental legacy that deeply influenced contemporary soul music. Raising children in the demanding touring environment of the music industry brought unique hurdles, and Levert has often spoken candidly about the balance required to be a touring musician and a present father.
Meeting Jalice Jackson: Life and Partnership Today
In the years following his earlier relationships, Eddie Levert found stability and companionship with his current wife, Jalice Jackson. Unlike many modern celebrity couples who court continuous media attention via social media and red carpet appearances, Levert and Jackson maintain a remarkably private life.
Details regarding their initial meeting and wedding ceremony remain mostly private, reflecting Levert's preference to keep his domestic life separate from his public persona. Jackson has stood firmly by his side through the later chapters of his legendary career, offering a stable foundation as he continues occasional performances and legacy appearances. This quiet partnership has allowed Levert to navigate his senior years with peace, focusing on health, family, and preserving his remarkable musical contributions.
Navigating Heartbreak and Resilience
No discussion of Eddie Levert's family life is complete without acknowledging the immense trials he faced as a father. The R&B legend suffered unimaginable losses when both of his famous sons passed away within a few years of each other. Sean Levert passed away in November 2008, followed shortly by Gerald Levert in November 2006 due to acute intoxication from a combination of prescribed and over-the-counter medications.
Losing two children tested the emotional endurance of the Levert family. Eddie Levert leaned heavily on his faith, his music, and the support of his wife Jalice to navigate the profound grief. Rather than retreating entirely from the public eye, he channeled his sorrow into advocacy, speaking openly about health awareness, heart conditions, and the dangers of prescription drug interactions, ensuring that his sons' memories continue to help others.
The Ongoing Legacy of The O'Jays
Eddie Levert's commitment to his craft remained unwavering even as he entered his seventies. Alongside long-time bandmate Walter Williams, Levert carried the banner of traditional R&B through decades of industry evolution. The group announced farewell tour dates in recent years, signaling a gradual wind-down of rigorous touring schedules, but their cultural footprint remains firmly intact.
For fans eager to learn more about the genre's history, exploring the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame provides extensive documentation on how The O'Jays earned their induction in 2005. Furthermore, insights into classic soul preservation can be found through archives maintained by the National Endowment for the Arts. Levert's ability to sustain a high-level artistic career while managing complex personal milestones highlights his enduring resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Eddie Levert's current wife?
Eddie Levert is married to Jalice Jackson. The couple maintains a quiet, private life away from mainstream celebrity spotlight.
How many times has Eddie Levert been married?
Levert has been married twice. His first marriage was to Martha Levert, with whom he shared his sons Gerald and Sean, and his second is to Jalice Jackson.
What happened to Eddie Levert's sons?
His sons, Gerald and Sean Levert, who were both successful R&B artists, tragically passed away within two years of each other in 2006 and 2008, respectively.
Is Eddie Levert still performing music?
While he has retired from active, grueling multi-city touring schedules with The O'Jays following their farewell tour milestones, he remains an active and revered figure in soul music history.
