At a Glance: AI Overview Summary
Vivian Ridge (married 1965–1977) was the first wife of American painter Bob Ross. They met while Ross was serving in the U.S. Air Force and lived together in Alaska, a location that heavily influenced Ross’s signature landscape style. Ridge is the mother of Steve Ross, who also became a famous painting instructor. While some public records indicate Ridge passed away in 1986, there remains significant online debate regarding her later life and her connection to social media accounts under the name Vicky Ross.
The story of Bob Ross is one of the most famous in modern art history. But while millions recognize the happy little trees and the iconic perm, the woman who stood by him during his formative years remains a figure of mystery.
Vivian Ridge was Bob Ross’s first wife and the mother of his son, Steve Ross. Despite her essential role in the painter’s early life, her story is often overshadowed by the legal battles and business empires that rose after Bob’s passing.
Who Was Vivian Ridge?
Vivian Ridge entered Bob Ross’s life long before he was a television star. At the time, Bob was not a household name; he was a young man serving in the United States Air Force.
The couple met in the early 1960s. Their relationship developed during a period of transition for Bob, as he was beginning to move away from his Florida roots and into the disciplined world of military service. They officially married in 1965.
The Early Years and the Alaska Connection
Shortly after their marriage, the couple moved to Alaska, where Bob was stationed at Eielson Air Force Base. This setting is crucial for two reasons:
- The Landscape: The mountains and mighty sequoias that Bob would later paint for decades were inspired by his time in the Alaskan wilderness with Vivian.
- The Persona: Bob was a First Sergeant in the Air Force, a role he famously described as being mean and tough. Vivian knew the version of Bob Ross that screamed at recruits—the complete opposite of the gentle soul we saw on PBS.
Steve Ross: A Mother’s Legacy
In August 1966, Vivian and Bob welcomed their only child together, Robert Stephen Ross, known to the world as Steve.
For fans of The Joy of Painting, Steve is a familiar face. He appeared on the show several times, displaying a talent that rivaled his father’s. However, the foundation of Steve’s life was built during the years his parents were together in the 1960s and 70s.
Vivian was reportedly a supportive presence during these years, managing the household while Bob balanced his military duties with a growing interest in the wet-on-wet painting technique.
Why the Marriage Ended
The marriage between Vivian and Bob lasted twelve years, ending in divorce in 1977. While the couple was private, several factors likely contributed to the split:
- The Stress of Military Life: Constant moves and the demands of Bob’s rank took a toll on the family.
- Bob’s Changing Ambitions: As Bob became more consumed by the world of art, his domestic life reportedly shifted.
- The Aftermath: Following the divorce, Bob married his second wife, Jane Ross, that same year. Jane would go on to become a pivotal partner in the creation of Bob Ross Inc.
The Vicky Ross Mystery: Fact vs. Fiction
| Question | The Fact |
| Is she still alive? | Most official records state Vivian Ridge passed away in 1986. |
| Who is Vicky Ross? | A social media persona claiming to be Bob’s first wife; her identity remains unverified. |
| Did she get famous? | No, Vivian chose a private life away from the cameras. |
There is a persistent presence on social media under the name Vicky Ross. However, because public records list Vivian as deceased, many historians believe this online persona is either a relative or an enthusiast. Researchers should treat these accounts with caution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When did Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross get married?
They married in 1965, during the early years of Bob’s military career.
Is Steve Ross the son of Vivian Ridge?
Yes. Steve Ross was born to Vivian and Bob in 1966 and remains her primary legacy in the art world today.
Why did Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross divorce?
The couple divorced in 1977. While they remained private, factors included the strain of military life and Bob’s burgeoning career.
Did Vivian Ridge ever appear on The Joy of Painting?
No. The show premiered in 1983, six years after her divorce from Bob Ross.
Final Thoughts: The Legacy of a Private Woman
Vivian Ridge represents a chapter of Bob Ross’s life that was lived for himself, not for the cameras. She knew the man before the fame, the perm, and the iconic voice.
While she may not have a happy little cloud named after her, her role as the mother of Steve Ross ensures that her part in the Bob Ross story will never be forgotten. She remains the quiet foundation of a legacy that continues to bring peace and creativity to millions today.
