Early Life and Marriage to Tito Jackson
Due to her marriage to Jackson 5 member Tito Jackson, Delores “Dee Dee” Martes Jackson lived a life of fame and sorrow. Dee Dee, born April 1, 1955, was Tito’s high school girlfriend in California. Their relationship grew swiftly, and they married in June 1972 when Dee Dee was 17 and Tito was 18. They entered the Jackson family’s bright yet tough environment.
The couple had three boys, Taj, Taryll, and TJ, who formed 3T. Dee Dee tried to give her children a solid childhood despite Tito’s demanding work and the Jackson family’s renown. Their marriage has several hardships. After 16 years of marriage, Tito and Dee Dee split in 1988 despite their close relationship. Tito stayed active in his children’s musical and psychological growth after the split.
After their divorce, Dee Dee struggled to find her own identity and path. However, her Jacksons link shaped popular impressions of her life. Dee Dee’s terrible demise overshadowed her bright life and love for her family.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Born | April 1, 1955 |
| Married Tito | June 1972 |
| Divorced | 1988 |
| Children | Taj, Taryll, TJ |
| Sons’ Group | 3T |
| Passed away | August 27, 1994 |
The Tragic Death and Legal Battle
Delores Martes Jackson’s death is one of the Jackson family’s most terrible stories. She was found dead in her lover Donald “Don” Bohana’s Ladera Heights, California, pool on August 27, 1994. The case was first considered an accidental drowning, but additional inquiry suggested foul involvement. Her autopsy showed blunt-force trauma, thus authorities ruled her death a homicide.
The court struggle was lengthy and complicated. Donald Bohana was sentenced to 15 years to life for second-degree murder in Dee Dee’s killing in November 1998. Dee Dee’s family, especially her ex-husband Tito Jackson and their sons, worked tirelessly to get Bohana convicted for her untimely death. Bohana’s financial instability was disclosed throughout the trial, adding intrigue and complication.
Despite the conviction, the family continued to seek justice. After serving 24 years, Bohana was paroled in December 2022, bringing back memories and feelings for Dee Dee fans. The family’s quest of justice showed their everlasting devotion to Dee Dee and their grief at her passing.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Death Date | August 27, 1994 |
| Convicted | Donald “Don” Bohana |
| Conviction | Second-degree murder |
| Sentence | 15 years to life |
| Parole Date | December 2022 |
| Family’s Action | Pursued justice, launched Dee Dee Jackson Foundation |
The Legacy of Dee Dee Jackson
Delores “Dee Dee” Martes Jackson’s family and foundation continue her legacy. After her sad death, her sons Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson and their father Tito worked for justice and her memory. They founded the charity Dee Dee Jackson Foundation to help sorrow via music therapy.
The Foundation uses music, which transformed the Jackson family, to assist people and families cope with grief. Through this project, Dee Dee’s legacy comforts and supports countless others facing similar circumstances.
A sad part in the Jackson family’s history, Dee Dee’s story shows the lasting impact of love and grief. Her boys honour her life and legacy via their music and devotion to healing others, demonstrating their perseverance and courage. This tribute to Dee Dee Jackson emphasises the need to preserve her legacy and encourage hope and healing for future generations.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Legacy | Dee Dee Jackson Foundation |
| Purpose | Grief support through music therapy |
| Founders | Taj, Taryll, TJ Jackson |
| Focus | Supporting individuals and families dealing with loss |
| Broader Impact | Extends healing beyond immediate family |
FAQ
Who was Delores Martes Jackson?
Delores Martes Jackson was Tito Jackson’s ex-wife and mother of three sons. Her death and legal quest for justice were widely covered.
How did Delores Martes Jackson die?
In 1994, Delores Martes Jackson died in an accidental drowning, but blunt-force damage led to a homicide.
What happened to Donald Bohana?
Donald Bohana was paroled in December 2022 after serving 24 years for second-degree murder in the 1998 killing of Delores Martes Jackson.
What is the Dee Dee Jackson Foundation?
The Dee Dee Jackson Foundation, founded by her sons, helps grieving people and families via music therapy.
How many kids did Delores Martes Jackson have?
Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson—children of Delores Martes Jackson—formed 3T.
