Who Was Vivian Ridge? The Untold Story of Bob Ross’s First Wife

Introduction – The Woman Behind The Brush

When people think of Bob Ross, they picture the calm, soothing artist who painted “happy little trees” and brought joy to millions through his show The Joy of Painting. Yet, few know about Vivian Ridge, the woman who was there before fame—his first wife and an early influence in his artistic life. Behind Bob’s gentle smile and peaceful landscapes was a woman who shared his passion for art and nature. Vivian Ridge may not have stood in the spotlight, but her quiet strength, creativity, and support helped shape one of the most beloved artists of all time. This is the untold story of Vivian Ridge—her life, her love, and her lasting impact.

Quick Bio Information

Early Life And Education Of Vivian Ridge

Vivian Ridge was born on October 29, 1942, in the United States. She spent her childhood in a small, close-knit town where her curiosity and creativity flourished. From a young age, Vivian showed a natural talent for art, often sketching nature scenes and painting the landscapes she loved. Her parents noticed her gift and encouraged her to pursue creative hobbies. Growing up surrounded by greenery and wildlife inspired her lifelong fascination with the natural world—something she would later share deeply with Bob Ross.

Vivian attended local schools where she excelled in art classes. Her teachers often praised her attention to detail and her appreciation for the beauty of simple things. She loved reading books about nature and wildlife, spending time outdoors, and learning how to capture the world’s quiet moments through painting. This deep connection to nature became a defining part of her personality and later influenced Bob Ross’s serene artistic style.

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Family Background And Upbringing

Vivian Ridge came from a loving and supportive family. Her parents valued hard work, kindness, and creativity—qualities she carried with her throughout her life. She was raised in a household that appreciated nature, with weekends often spent gardening or taking family walks through nearby parks. Vivian also had siblings with whom she shared a close relationship, and they often worked together on creative projects at home.

Her family’s encouragement helped Vivian believe in her artistic abilities. The warmth and simplicity of her upbringing gave her a calm and nurturing spirit, which would later become an important part of her relationship with Bob Ross. Her parents’ guidance shaped her into a thoughtful, compassionate woman who believed in finding joy in life’s little details.

Love Story – How Vivian Ridge Met Bob Ross

Vivian Ridge met Bob Ross before the world knew him as the soft-spoken painting instructor on television. Their paths crossed in the mid-1960s, reportedly while both were pursuing artistic interests. Vivian’s appreciation for art and nature instantly connected her to Bob, who at the time was a young man with big dreams and a love for painting landscapes.

The two quickly grew close, sharing long conversations about art, creativity, and life’s peaceful moments. They married in 1965 and built a home together filled with warmth, laughter, and art supplies. Their relationship was marked by mutual respect and encouragement. Vivian stood by Bob during his early struggles, long before fame came knocking. Together, they painted, explored nature, and raised their son, Steven Ross. Their bond was one of companionship and shared passion—a love rooted in creativity.

Marriage And Life With Bob Ross

During their 15 years of marriage, Vivian Ridge played a vital role in Bob Ross’s life. She supported him through his time in the U.S. Air Force, where he practiced painting during his off hours. While Bob developed his unique wet-on-wet painting technique, Vivian was his emotional anchor. Their shared love for art turned their home into a place of inspiration.

As Bob began to refine his craft, Vivian often painted alongside him, exchanging ideas and feedback. Though she preferred a private life, she was deeply involved in nurturing Bob’s artistic confidence. Their son, Steven, was born during this time, bringing more love and joy into their lives. Vivian’s gentle encouragement and belief in Bob’s talent gave him the foundation to become the artist the world would later celebrate.

However, like many creative partnerships, their marriage faced challenges. As Bob’s career demands grew, their relationship changed. After 15 years together, Vivian and Bob divorced in 1977. Despite their separation, the influence of their shared years remained visible in Bob’s gentle artistic approach and his appreciation for simplicity and nature.

Vivian Ridge And Her Son Steven Ross

Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross’s son, Steven Ross, was born during their marriage and became the link that continued their shared love for art. Growing up, Steven watched both his parents paint and explore the outdoors. Vivian taught him to see beauty in small details—the texture of a leaf, the light in a sunset, or the calmness of water. These lessons shaped Steven’s artistic perspective.

After Bob Ross became a household name, Steven often appeared alongside his father on The Joy of Painting, showcasing the artistic legacy that began with Vivian’s quiet encouragement. Vivian and Steven shared a strong mother-son bond built on creativity, warmth, and understanding. Through Steven’s work as a painter, Vivian’s influence lives on, connecting three generations through art.

Career, Passions, And Creative Interests

While Vivian Ridge never pursued a professional art career, her creative spirit was undeniable. She was passionate about painting, especially landscapes and floral themes. Her home was often filled with her artwork—gentle scenes inspired by the world around her. Beyond painting, Vivian loved gardening, cooking, reading, and spending time outdoors. She found peace in caring for her plants, often describing gardening as a form of living art.

Vivian also had a deep love for books, particularly those about nature, art, and history. Her hobbies reflected her appreciation for beauty and tranquility. She preferred a simple life focused on creativity, family, and personal joy rather than fame or recognition. Those who knew her described her as kind, graceful, and deeply thoughtful—a woman whose artistic touch extended into everything she did.

Why Vivian Ridge Is Remembered

Vivian Ridge is remembered as more than just Bob Ross’s first wife—she was one of the earliest influences in his artistic journey. Her calm demeanor, creative outlook, and shared love for nature helped shape the peaceful style that made Bob Ross famous. Though she chose to live privately and stayed away from the spotlight, her quiet presence left a lasting mark.

Her influence is most evident in Bob’s gentle teaching style and his appreciation for simplicity. The peaceful scenes that Bob painted—mountains, trees, and rivers—reflected the same serenity that Vivian embodied. Even though their marriage ended, she remained an important chapter in Bob’s story and a vital part of his growth as both an artist and a person.

Vivian Ridge Net Worth And Lifestyle

Vivian Ridge lived a modest and comfortable life. Her estimated net worth was around one million dollars, mostly connected to family assets and the shared success that came during her time with Bob Ross. However, wealth was never Vivian’s priority. She valued a peaceful, nature-filled lifestyle over fame or material possessions.

She preferred spending her time painting, gardening, or reading rather than living in the public eye. Friends and family often described her as content, genuine, and humble. Even after her divorce from Bob, she maintained her love for art and her quiet way of life, embodying the same serenity that inspired her husband’s paintings.

Legacy And Passing

Vivian Ridge passed away on May 3, 2018, at the age of 79. Her death marked the end of a quiet but impactful life. Though she never sought public recognition, her influence continues to echo through the legacy of Bob Ross and their son, Steven. Many who study Bob’s life agree that Vivian played an integral role in shaping his early artistic path.

Her legacy lives on in every “happy little tree” and tranquil landscape that Bob painted. Vivian’s story reminds us that behind every great artist, there are often unseen figures who help nurture their creativity. She remains a symbol of love, support, and inspiration—proof that even those who live quietly can make a lasting impact on the world.

Interesting Facts About Vivian Ridge

Vivian Ridge loved painting nature scenes and often joined Bob Ross in creative sessions. She enjoyed gardening and took pride in her colorful garden filled with flowers and plants. Her favorite pastime was reading books about art, nature, and wildlife. She loved cooking and experimenting with new recipes. Classical and calming music were her constant companions while she painted or read. Her peaceful personality and nurturing energy made her beloved among family and friends. Though she avoided fame, she left behind a story worth remembering—one filled with creativity, love, and grace.

Final Thoughts

Vivian Ridge’s life was one of quiet grace and meaningful influence. She may not have stood before the camera like Bob Ross, but her presence behind the scenes helped shape the heart of one of the world’s most cherished artists. Her story reminds us that creativity often begins at home, nurtured by love, patience, and shared passion. Vivian Ridge’s legacy lives on not only in her son and the art she inspired but also in every calm brushstroke and peaceful landscape that continues to bring comfort to millions. She was the unseen muse behind Bob Ross’s gentle world—a woman whose life was, in its own way, a masterpiece.

FAQs About Vivian Ridge

Who Was Vivian Ridge?
Vivian Ridge was the first wife of famous painter Bob Ross. She was an artist herself and played an important role in inspiring Bob’s early work.

When Was Vivian Ridge Born?
Vivian Ridge was born on October 29, 1942, in the United States.

How Long Were Vivian Ridge And Bob Ross Married?
They were married for 15 years, from 1965 until their divorce in 1977.

Did Vivian Ridge And Bob Ross Have Any Children?
Yes, they had one son named Steven Ross, who followed in his father’s footsteps as a painter.

What Was Vivian Ridge’s Profession?
Vivian was an artist and homemaker who loved painting, gardening, and reading. She did not pursue a professional art career but was deeply creative.

When Did Vivian Ridge Die?
Vivian Ridge passed away on May 3, 2018, at the age of 79.

What Is Vivian Ridge’s Legacy?
Vivian Ridge’s legacy lies in her creative influence and the love she shared with Bob Ross and their son. She inspired Bob’s early work and remains a quiet but important figure in his story.