Opera singer Grace Bumbry, known for her radiant charisma and expansive range, died on May 7 at the age of 86 in Vienna, Austria, where she had been hospitalized since suffering a stroke in October. Her death was confirmed by her publicist, David Lee Brewer.

Who was Grace Bumbry?

Born in the United States, Grace Bumbry rose to fame despite the institutionalized racism and segregation that dominated American institutions during her childhood. She grew up in St. Louis in the 1930s and ’40s, the daughter of a railway clerk and a schoolteacher. Although she showed great talent from an early age, the local music conservatory denied her entrance because of her race.

Despite these obstacles, Bumbry went on to become one of the most celebrated opera singers of all time, earning countless accolades and awards for her performances.

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Age:
Born on January 4, 1937, in St. Louis, Missouri, Grace Bumbry began her musical journey at a young age. She was 86 years old at the time of her passing.

Cause of death:
Ms. Bumbry had been hospitalized since suffering a stroke in October. The exact cause of her death has not been disclosed.

Net worth:
As of 2023, Grace Bumbry’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million.

Ex-husband Erwin Jaeckel:
Ms. Bumbry was married to Polish-born Erwin Jaeckel from 1963 to 1972.

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Children:
There is no known information about whether or not she had children.

Ms. Bumbry broke many barriers during her illustrious career and became one of the first African Americans to conquer the international opera stage.