When people look up Ron White's wife, they usually want to know about his high-profile marriage to singer-songwriter Margo Rey and the complicated legal fallout that followed their separation. The veteran stand-up comedian, famously known as "Tater Salad" from the Blue Collar Comedy Tour, has been married three times, with each relationship offering a window into different chapters of his decades-long career.
His marital history spans from his early struggling days in Texas to his multi-millionaire status as a headlining comedy icon. Understanding his relationship history requires looking past the stage persona to examine his marriages to Lori Brice, Barbara Dobbs, and Margo Rey.
Margo Rey: The Music, the Marriage, and the Legal Battle
Margo Rey, born Margarita Reymundo-Jurado in Acapulco, Mexico, is a professional singer and songwriter known for her unique musical style called "Organica"—an unorthodox blend of pop, jazz, and bossa nova. Her brother is comedian Alex Reymundo, who frequently tours as Ron White's opening act. Through this comedic connection, Ron and Margo crossed paths around 2009.
The couple's relationship blossomed both personally and professionally. They collaborated on live entertainment ventures, including shows billed as Ron White Presents: Margo Rey Live. In October 2013, they celebrated a formal wedding ceremony in front of approximately 300 guests in Dallas, Texas. During their marriage, Ron supported Margo through her public battle with breast cancer, frequently praising her resilience and distinct personality in interviews. As highlighted in recent articles by Reuters, the effects are widespread.
However, the relationship deteriorated, and Margo filed for divorce in June 2017. What followed was a contentious court battle over the legal status of their union. Margo argued in Los Angeles Superior Court that they had been common-law married under Texas law since 2008, meaning their relationship spanned nine years rather than the four years following their 2013 ceremony. Ron contested this, characterizing the 2013 event as a "mock marriage" and arguing they were never legally bound for the earlier duration. In August 2019, a judge ruled in Margo's favor, recognizing their common-law marriage and ordering significant monthly spousal support. Despite the legal friction, Alex Reymundo has continued his professional touring relationship with Ron.
Lori Brice: The Early Years and First Family
Long before stadium tours and headlining specials, Ron married his first wife, Lori Brice, in August 1981. At the time, Ron was twenty-five years old and working various jobs while trying to break into the entertainment industry.
The couple spent twelve years together before divorcing in 1993. During their marriage, they welcomed a son named Marshall White, born in July 1991. Fans of the comedian affectionately nicknamed his son "Tater Tot" in playful homage to Ron's signature stage moniker. Unlike his subsequent high-profile relationships, Ron's marriage to Lori was kept entirely out of the public eye. Following their split, Lori maintained a quiet, private life, and Ron has frequently noted in interviews that they remained on amicable terms as co-parents. Marshall grew up to maintain a close relationship with his father.
Barbara Dobbs: The Mid-Career Marriage
In June 2004, Ron married his second wife, Barbara Dobbs, an interior designer who had previously worked with fellow comedian Jeff Foxworthy. At this point in his career, Ron's success with the Blue Collar Comedy Tour had propelled him into financial stability and mainstream fame.
The couple resided in Atlanta, Georgia, during their marriage. They did not have children together. The union lasted four years, ending in divorce in 2008. The separation involved significant financial settlements, which Ron later discussed candidly on media appearances, noting the high cost of the proceedings and the division of assets. Following the finalization of the divorce, Barbara stepped away from the public sphere entirely.
Life After Divorce and Current Relationship Status
Following the conclusion of his marriage to Margo Rey, Ron White has remained unmarried. In various podcast appearances and interviews, the veteran comic has stated that he has no intention of walking down the aisle a fourth time. Having experienced marriages during vastly different financial and professional stages of his life—from struggling newcomer to multi-millionaire entertainer—he has humorously remarked on the logistical and financial lessons learned from his past relationships.
Today, Ron focuses intensely on his stand-up comedy career, traveling extensively across the United States for theater and arena tours. He has also focused on personal health milestones, including quitting alcohol with the help of alternative therapies. His brother-in-law from his third marriage, Alex Reymundo, remains a constant fixture on his tour roster, proving that professional bonds in the comedy world often outlast personal ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ron White currently married?
No. Ron White is not currently married and does not have a wife. He has stated publicly that he does not plan to marry again following his three previous divorces.
How many times has Ron White been married?
Ron White has been married three times. His first marriage was to Lori Brice (1981–1993), his second to Barbara Dobbs (2004–2008), and his third to Margo Rey (2013–2017).
Does Ron White have children?
Yes, he has one son named Marshall White, born in 1991, from his first marriage to Lori Brice. Marshall's birth name and relationship to his father are often referenced by fans using the nickname "Tater Tot".
Who is Margo Rey?
Margo Rey is a Mexican-born singer, songwriter, and cancer survivor known for her "Organica" musical style. She was married to Ron White and is the sister of comedian Alex Reymundo.
