THE CROSBY FAMILY TREE EXPLAINED
Spread the love The name Crosby echoes through the corridors of entertainment, with Bing Crosby standing tall as its most illustrious figure. Bing’s journey from a singer to an actor left an indelible mark on the world. However, the Crosby family tree extends beyond the limelight, weaving a tale of heritage, talent, and tribulations.
Bing Crosby: A Star is Born
Bing Crosby, born on May 3, 1903, in Tacoma, Washington, emerged as a prominent figure in the 1930s. His fame soared through singing, radio hosting, and acting, where he clinched an Academy Award for his role in “Going My Way.” The Crosby family tree started with Harry Lowe Crosby and Catherine Harrigan, who brought seven children into the world, with Bing being the fourth.
The Crosby Homestead in Spokane
The heart of the Crosby family story lies in Spokane, Washington, where they settled in 190Residing at 508 E. Sharp Avenue, now part of Gonzaga University, the Crosbys laid the foundation of their family tree. Bing’s ties to Gonzaga remained strong, even receiving an honorary degree when his fame blossomed.
Bing, Born Harry Jr.: A Childhood Moniker
Bing Crosby, originally Harry Lillis Crosby Jr., found his identity in an unexpected way. As a child, his friends bestowed upon him the nickname “Bing,” inspired by a comic strip he adored, “The Bingville Bugle.” This moniker stuck, eventually becoming his only name. Bing’s journey into fame took flight when he met Dixie Lee in 1929, marking the beginning of his family legacy.
Wives and Children: A Musical Dynasty
In 1930, Bing married Dixie Lee, and the couple welcomed four sons: Gary, Phillip, Dennis, and Lindsay. The Crosby Boys ventured into entertainment, forming a musical legacy. However, fame brought its challenges, as the sons grappled with alcohol addiction. After Dixie Lee’s passing in 1952, Bing remarried Kathryn Grandstaff in 1957, adding three more children to the family: Harry, Mary, and Nathaniel.
A Painful Chapter: Losses in the Crosby Family
Tragedy struck the Crosby family with the deaths of four sons from Bing’s first marriage. Lindsay’s suicide in 1989 and Dennis’s in 1991 cast a shadow. In 1995, their brother, Gary, succumbed to cancer, followed by Phillip’s death in 200Despite these losses, the Crosby family tree continued through surviving grandchildren.
The Next Generation: Crosby Grandchildren
Dennis Crosby’s seven children, from two marriages, ensured the Crosby legacy persisted. Phillip’s daughters carried the torch, and Gary’s son, Steve, upheld the family name. Lindsay’s five sons, born from three marriages, diversified the Crosby lineage. In total, Bing Crosby has over a dozen living grandchildren, each contributing to the family’s diverse tapestry.
Kathryn Crosby’s Impact
Bing’s second wife, Kathryn Crosby, added her chapter to the family story. Their son, Harry Crosby III, pursued acting and banking, and Mary Crosby, an actress, expanded the family’s artistic flair. Nathaniel Crosby chose a different path, excelling in golf, a sport synonymous with his father.
A Lasting Legacy: The Crosby Family Today
As of today, Bing Crosby’s grandchildren carry the family’s spirit forward. Nathaniel Crosby, now married to Sheila, oversees a family that includes Nathaniel Jr., Brendan, Bridget, Claire Crosby, and step-daughters Turner and Courtney Reynolds. Harry Crosby III and Mary Crosby, with their families, contribute to the enduring legacy of the Crosby family tree.Bing Crosby’s journey, from the heart of Spokane to global stardom, leaves an everlasting impact. Through triumphs and trials, the Crosby family tree stands tall, embracing new generations, ensuring the melody of the Crosby name continues to resonate.
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