Behind every legendary Hollywood cowboy stood a woman who kept the home fires burning, and for Western icon Dale Robertson, that woman was Susan Dee Robbins. While Robertson rode across television screens as the stoic Jim Hardie in “Tales of Wells Fargo” and graced the silver screen in countless Western classics, his personal life remained largely shielded from the glaring spotlight of fame. Susan, a former flight attendant, became his anchor for more than three decades, offering stability and devotion that outlasted the glitz and glamour of Tinseltown .
Their love story unfolded away from the Hollywood gossip columns, rooted in genuine companionship and shared passions. Susan’s journey from a Miami native and American Airlines flight attendant to the wife of a cowboy legend reveals a woman of remarkable quiet strength . She stood by Dale through his golden years, his declining health, and ultimately his passing, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering loyalty that deserves to be remembered alongside his celebrated filmography. This article uncovers the untold truth about Susan Dee Robbins and her profound impact on Dale Robertson’s life.
Quick Bio Susan Dee Robbins
Who Was Susan Dee Robbins Before Meeting Dale Robertson?
Susan Dee Robbins entered the world on September 2, 1947, in Miami, Florida, where she spent her formative years surrounded by the warmth of the Sunshine State . Long before she became Mrs. Dale Robertson, Susan carved out her own path in the professional world as a flight attendant for American Airlines, a role that undoubtedly honed her grace, poise, and ability to handle high-pressure situations with a calm demeanor. Her career allowed her to travel and experience life beyond her Florida roots, but it was a chance encounter during one of her journeys that would ultimately change the course of her life forever .
Growing up in Miami during the mid-20th century, Susan developed the kind of resilience and independence that served her well in her later years. Though she was not initially part of the Hollywood scene, her life took a dramatic turn when she crossed paths with Dale Robertson, a man already established as one of television’s most beloved cowboy stars. Her background as a working professional meant she brought her own identity and strength into their marriage, qualities that made her more than just a celebrity spouse but a true partner to the Western icon…Read more Kimberly Ann Vadala
How Did Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson Meet?
The exact circumstances of their first meeting remain largely private, but Dale Robertson and Susan Dee Robbins began their relationship in the late 1970s, a period when Robertson was already a well-established television and film star . Their worlds collided at a time when Robertson was looking for stability and companionship, having experienced three previous marriages that did not stand the test of time. The couple’s romance blossomed quietly, away from the paparazzi’s relentless gaze, marking the beginning of a partnership that would span more than three decades .
By 1980, Robertson knew he had found his lasting love. The couple exchanged vows on February 2, 1980, beginning a marriage that would prove to be Robertson’s longest and most enduring . Susan, then in her early thirties, stepped into the role of a Hollywood wife while maintaining her grounded, genuine personality. She became the companion Robertson had been searching for, offering him the support he needed as his career evolved and his health began to decline. Their meeting, though shrouded in mystery, was undoubtedly a turning point for the Oklahoma-born actor who finally found his anchor in the former flight attendant.
The Marriage of Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson
Susan and Dale’s marriage was built on a foundation of mutual respect, shared values, and a love for the cowboy way of life. They tied the knot on February 2, 1980, beginning a 33-year journey that lasted until Robertson’s death in 2013 . Their wedding was a private affair, reflecting their desire to keep their personal lives shielded from the public eye. Unlike many Hollywood unions that crumble under the weight of fame, Susan and Dale’s partnership grew stronger with each passing year, becoming a testament to their genuine compatibility and deep commitment to one another .
Their 33-year marriage was remarkable, especially considering the pressures of Hollywood and Robertson’s previous relationship struggles. Susan provided the stability that Robertson desperately needed, often prioritizing their life together over the allure of celebrity. She stood by him through his later television roles in “Dallas” and “Dynasty” and supported his decision to retire from acting in 1993 to focus on his true passion: his Oklahoma ranch . Their marriage was a true partnership, with Susan serving as both a confidante and a steadfast supporter during Robertson’s golden years.
Life with Dale Robertson: Behind the Scenes of a Hollywood Marriage
Life for Susan Dee Robbins was far from the Hollywood stereotype of glamorous parties and red-carpet premieres. She and Dale preferred the quiet, rustic life on their Haymaker Farms ranch in Yukon, Oklahoma, where they raised horses and lived a life deeply connected to nature . Robertson had purchased the ranch with his Hollywood earnings, and it became their sanctuary—a place where the cowboy star could shed his celebrity persona and live authentically.
Living in Oklahoma offered Susan the kind of normalcy she cherished. She managed the day-to-day operations of the ranch while Robertson focused on his acting projects and later on his retirement. Their neighbors often described them as a down-to-earth couple who never let Hollywood’s glitz define them. Susan’s presence at the ranch was essential, as she helped manage the estate and ensured that Robertson could enjoy his later years in peace.
Susan Dee Robbins as a Stepmother to Dale’s Children
Susan Dee Robbins gracefully stepped into the role of stepmother to Dale Robertson’s children, including his daughter Rochelle, who survived him . Robertson’s previous marriages had left him with a family that Susan embraced wholeheartedly. She never had biological children with Dale, but she treated his daughters as her own, providing them with love and stability that enriched their lives.
Despite the complexities of blending families, Susan maintained a loving relationship with her stepchildren, creating a cohesive family unit that supported Robertson throughout his life and career. Her ability to build these relationships spoke volumes about her character and dedication to her husband and his legacy.
The Couple’s Life in Oklahoma and Their Love for Horses
The heart of Susan and Dale’s life together was undoubtedly Haymaker Farms, their sprawling horse ranch in Yukon, Oklahoma, just west of Oklahoma City . Robertson, who had grown up around horses in Harrah, Oklahoma, found immense joy and purpose in building the ranch with his wife by his side. For Susan, the ranch became her home and her passion.
At Haymaker Farms, Susan helped oversee the breeding and care of numerous horses, with some becoming world champions under their care . The ranch was not just a business venture; it was an extension of their love for each other and for the Western lifestyle. Robertson used his film earnings to fund the ranch, and Susan managed the household and the property’s day-to-day needs, ensuring that the farm ran smoothly.
Dale Robertson’s Health Decline and Susan’s Devotion
In his final years, Dale Robertson’s health began to decline significantly, and Susan Dee Robbins became his primary caregiver. Robertson had been in poor health for about two years before his death, and his condition took a devastating turn in February 2013 when he received a cancer diagnosis just a week before he passed away .
The couple had moved from their beloved Oklahoma ranch to the San Diego area in the summer of 2012, seeking better healthcare and a milder climate for Robertson’s ailing health . Susan managed this transition while continuing to support her husband. When he was admitted to Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, California, she was a constant presence, ensuring he was comfortable and surrounded by love.
Dale Robertson’s Death and How Susan Dee Robbins Coped
The death of Dale Robertson on February 26, 2013, left Susan Dee Robbins heartbroken but resilient . The Western icon succumbed to lung cancer and pneumonia at the age of 89, passing away at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, California . Susan, who had been his devoted wife for 33 years, faced the immense grief of losing her life partner.
Robertson’s niece, Nancy Love Robertson, confirmed the news of his passing and shared insights into his final days. Susan found solace in her family and the memories of their life together . She had to navigate the practicalities of settling his estate, including overseeing an auction that sold much of his memorabilia and belongings .
What Happened to Susan Dee Robbins After Dale’s Passing?
After the loss of her husband, Susan Dee Robbins attempted to rebuild her life, though she remained out of the public eye. She eventually found love again with Howard Lieberman, whom she married after Robertson’s death . However, her time in this new chapter was tragically short. Just over a year after Robertson’s passing, Susan Dee Robbins passed away at the age of 66 on June 3, 2014, in Aventura, Florida .
At the time of her death, Susan was living in the Miami area, returning to her Florida roots where she had been born and raised. She had also maintained a residence in Aventura for the past 20 years before her passing . Susan was survived by her second husband Howard Lieberman, her two sons Geoffrey M. Robbins and Bryan N. Robbins, and her stepchildren from Lieberman’s side, as well as her many siblings and extended family.
Susan Dee Robbins’ Life After Hollywood and Final Years
In the years following Dale Robertson’s death, Susan Dee Robbins chose to live a quiet life away from the fame that had surrounded her marriage. She remarried Howard Lieberman, but her final years were spent in relative privacy, surrounded by her family. She never sought the spotlight, preferring to remain a figure known only to those closest to her. She served as a realtor and tax preparer, holding professional memberships and contributing to her community quietly. Susan’s ability to maintain a low profile, even after being married to a major Hollywood star, was a hallmark of her character .
Her death in Aventura, Florida, on June 3, 2014, marked the end of a life that was defined by devotion and quiet strength . Her surviving family included her beloved husband Howard Lieberman and her two wonderful sons, Geoffrey and Bryan. She was also a proud stepmother and grandmother, leaving behind a large family who cherished her memory.
The Legacy of Susan Dee Robbins and Her Role in Dale’s Life
The legacy of Susan Dee Robbins is intertwined with that of her famous husband, but her own story stands as a testament to loyalty and quiet determination. While Dale Robertson is remembered for his contributions to Western cinema and television, Susan is remembered as the woman who provided him with the stability and love that had eluded him in his earlier relationships .Robertson’s final decades might have been far less fulfilling.
She ensured that Dale’s final wishes were honored and that he was remembered as a father, grandfather, and proud Oklahoman . Her devotion ensured that his name remained synonymous with honor and integrity, both on and off the screen. Susan’s role in preserving his legacy, from managing the ranch to handling his affairs after his death, showcases a woman who was far more than just a celebrity spouse—she was a true partner in every sense of the word.
Why Susan Dee Robbins Remains a Figure of Quiet Strength
Susan Dee Robbins embodies the essence of quiet strength, a woman who found her purpose not in seeking fame but in nurturing the life and legacy of a beloved icon. Unlike many Hollywood wives who crave the spotlight, Susan was content to stand in the shadows, ensuring that her husband’s light shone brightly. Her transition from a Miami-based flight attendant to the mistress of an Oklahoma ranch illustrates her adaptability and strong will.
Susan’s ability to endure immense loss—first the death of her husband of 33 years and then her own untimely passing just a year later—underscores the fragility of life and the strength required to face such hardships. Her story continues to inspire those who value loyalty, love, and a commitment to family above all else…Explore more Yvette Prieto
Conclusion
Susan Dee Robbins lived a life that defied the typical Hollywood narrative, choosing devotion over fame and family over fortune. As the loyal wife of Western actor Dale Robertson, she transformed from a Miami flight attendant into the steward of a sprawling Oklahoma ranch, embracing a life that few could have imagined . Her marriage to Robertson spanned 33 years, beginning on February 2, 1980, and lasting until his death on February 26, 2013 .
Though she passed away just over a year after Robertson, Susan’s memory endures as a testament to the power of steadfast love. She was a devoted mother, a caring stepmother, and a cherished wife who left an indelible mark on everyone she met . Her life was not defined by the glitz of Hollywood but by the quiet dignity with which she managed her home, her family, and her husband’s sprawling legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Susan Dee Robbins?
Susan Dee Robbins was the second wife and devoted partner of American Western actor Dale Robertson .
When did Susan Dee Robbins marry Dale Robertson?
Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson were married on February 2, 1980 . They remained together until Robertson’s death in 2013, marking a 33-year marriage .
Did Susan Dee Robbins have any children?
Susan Dee Robbins did not have biological children with Dale Robertson. She served as a stepmother to his children, including his daughter Rochelle.
Where did Susan Dee Robbins live with Dale Robertson?
Susan Dee Robbins lived with Dale Robertson on his Haymaker Farms ranch in Yukon, Oklahoma .
What happened to Susan Dee Robbins after Dale Robertson died?
After Dale Robertson died in 2013, Susan Dee Robbins married Howard Lieberman and returned to Florida .
Where is Susan Dee Robbins buried?
The details of Susan Dee Robbins’s burial have not been publicly disclosed.
Was Susan Dee Robbins married before Dale Robertson?
No definitive records indicate Susan Dee Robbins was married before her marriage to Dale Robertson.
How long were Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson married?
Susan and Dale were married for 33 years, from February 2, 1980, until his passing on February 26, 2013.
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