Dee Dee Jackson, whose full name was Delores Vilma Martes Jackson, was an important yet quiet figure in the famous Jackson family. Born in New York in 1955, she became known as the first wife of Tito Jackson and the mother of Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson of the group 3T. Her life combined family devotion, music connections, and a tragic ending in 1994. Today, her story continues through her children and the Dee Dee Jackson Foundation.
Profile Summary
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Delores Vilma Martes Jackson |
| Known As | Dee Dee Jackson |
| Date of Birth | April 1, 1955 |
| Place of Birth | New York, United States |
| Age at Death | 39 years old (1994) |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Dominican-American |
| Education | Fairfax High School, Los Angeles |
| Husband | Toriano Adaryll “Tito” Jackson (1972–1988) |
| Ex-Partner | Donald James Bohana |
| Children | Taj Jackson, Taryll Jackson, TJ Jackson (3T) |
| Famous Relatives | Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Rebbie Jackson |
| Profession | Family figure, songwriter (co-writer of “Hey Boy”) |
| Residence | Ladera Heights, California |
| Religion | Associated with Jehovah’s Witness faith (during marriage) |
| Net Worth | Private estate (not publicly documented) |
| Known For | Marriage to Tito Jackson, mother of 3T, Jackson family legacy |
| Date of Death | August 27, 1994 |
| Cause of Death | Homicide (second-degree murder case) |
| Legacy | Dee Dee Jackson Foundation, 3T’s “Brotherhood” album |
Early Life, Real Name, Background, and Education
Dee was born as Delores Vilma Martes on April 1, 1955, in New York. She spent her early years in Harlem before moving to California in 1968. Her upbringing reflected a mix of American and Dominican roots, and her Dominican heritage later became an important part of her children’s identity.
She attended Fairfax High School in Los Angeles, where her life took a meaningful turn. This is where she met Tito Jackson. Those early school years shaped her personality. She was known as outgoing and confident, which later played a role in her relationship with Tito. While many details about her parents and siblings are not publicly documented, her early life clearly built the foundation for her strong family values.
Dee’s Place in the Jackson Family
After becoming part of the Jackson family, Dee chose a life away from fame. While the Jackson 5 rose to global success, she stayed mostly behind the scenes. Her focus was on raising her three sons and keeping family life stable while Tito toured.
She was deeply accepted by the Jackson family. Tito Jackson once shared that his siblings treated her like a sister. Through her marriage, she became connected to global stars like Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, and Rebbie Jackson. Even though she was not a public performer, her role in the family was meaningful. She helped shape the next generation through care, support, and strong values.
Her Husband: Toriano Adaryll “Tito” Jackson
Toriano Adaryll “Tito” Jackson was born on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana. He was one of the founding members of the Jackson 5, a group that changed the music industry with hits like “ABC” and “I Want You Back.” As a guitarist and background vocalist, Tito played a key role in the group’s success.
He was the son of Joseph “Joe” Jackson and Katherine Jackson, and one of ten siblings, including Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson. Tito later continued his music journey with The Jacksons and eventually built a solo career in blues music. His albums Tito Time and Under Your Spell showed his passion for music even later in life.
Tito Jackson married Dee Dee Jackson in 1972, and together they built a family. After their divorce in 1988, he continued his career and later married Mizuki Matsui in 2020. He passed away on September 15, 2024. Despite their separation, Tito always showed deep respect for Dee and was emotionally affected by her passing.
Dee Dee Jackson and Tito Jackson Marriage and Relationship
Dee Dee Jackson and Tito Jackson met as teenagers at Fairfax High School. Their story began with a simple but memorable moment. Dee Dee, known for her bold personality, approached Tito and wished him a happy birthday with a kiss on the cheek. That moment started their relationship.
They married on June 17, 1972, at Joy House Wedding Gardens. At the time, they were very young, but their bond was strong. During their 16-year marriage, they welcomed three sons and built a family while Tito’s career kept him on the road. Dee Dee focused on raising their children and maintaining a stable home.
Over time, differences led to their separation. They divorced in 1988. Even after the divorce, their connection remained meaningful. When She passed away in 1994, Tito reportedly placed a cherished photo of them together in her casket, showing how important she remained in his life.
Her Children: Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson
Dee’s legacy lives strongly through her three sons, who became the musical group 3T. Each of them built a unique path in music and media.
Tariano Adaryll “Taj” Jackson II was born on August 4, 1973. He is a singer, songwriter, and director. Taj became known not only for his work with 3T but also for media projects like Righting HIStory. He studied television production at Loyola Marymount University and later married Thayana Sco Jackson. Together they have daughters, including Taylor Aurora Sco Jackson and Toria Katherine Sco Jackson.
Taryll Adren Jackson, born on August 8, 1975, became a successful songwriter and producer. He played a major role in shaping 3T’s music and also worked with artists like Janet Jackson, Lindsay Lohan, and Bruno Mars. Taryll later released solo projects such as Crazy Love and Digital 8. He shares children Bryce and Adren with his long-term partner Breana Cabral.
Tito Joe “TJ” Jackson, born on July 16, 1978, is known for both music and family leadership. After the passing of Michael Jackson, TJ took on a responsible role in the family. He became a co-guardian for Michael’s children Prince, Paris, and Bigi. He also built a solo music career with releases like Obsession and Acoustic Sessions 1. TJ is married to Frances Casey and has children including Royal, Delores “Dee Dee,” Jo Jo, and Rio. Naming his daughter Dee Dee was a tribute to his mother.
Career, Songwriting Credit, and Influence
Although Dee Dee Jackson did not pursue a full public career, she still contributed to music. One of her known works is the song “Hey Boy,” which she co-wrote for Rebbie Jackson’s 1984 album Centipede. This shows that she had creative talent and a connection to the music world beyond family support.
Her main role, however, was within the family. She helped guide her sons during their early years, which later shaped their success in 3T. Her influence can also be seen in projects like The Jacksons: Next Generation and The Power of Love Show, where her life and memory continue to be discussed. Her impact was quiet but lasting.
Dee Dee Jackson’s Death
The death of Dee Dee Jackson in August 1994 was a tragic and widely discussed event. On the night of August 26–27, she was at the home of her boyfriend, Donald James Bohana, in Ladera Heights, Los Angeles. Around 3:30 a.m., Bohana called emergency services and claimed she had drowned in his swimming pool.
When paramedics arrived, She was unresponsive and later pronounced dead at a hospital. At first, the case was ruled an accidental drowning. However, suspicions quickly grew. The Jackson family questioned the story because Dee had a strong fear of water and could not swim.
An autopsy revealed serious injuries, including 58 cuts and bruises, blunt force trauma, and signs of asphyxia. Forensic evidence, including the washerwoman effect, helped challenge the original timeline. In 1996, the death was officially ruled a homicide by Dr. David Posey.
After years of legal effort, including a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the Jackson family in 1995, Donald Bohana was charged. In 1998, he was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 15 years to life in prison. After serving 24 years, he was released on parole in December 2022. The case remains a major part of Dee Dee Jackson’s story.
Legacy, Grandchildren, Foundation
Dee Dee Jackson’s legacy continues through her family and the work done in her name. Her sons dedicated their debut album Brotherhood to her memory, showing how deeply she influenced their lives. Her grandchildren, including Royal Jackson, Jo Jo Jackson, Taylor Aurora Sco Jackson, and Toria Katherine Sco Jackson, carry her name and story forward.
In 2015, her sons created the Dee Dee Jackson Foundation. This nonprofit focuses on music therapy and helping people deal with grief. It also runs projects like The Power of Love Show, which talks about healing and life after loss. The foundation reflects Dee Dee’s belief in the emotional power of music.
Final Thoughts
Dee lived a life centered on family, love, and quiet strength. She was not always in the spotlight, but her influence was clear in the success of her children and the respect she earned within the Jackson family. Her tragic death brought attention to her story, but her legacy goes far beyond that moment.
Today, Dee is remembered as a caring mother, a supportive partner, and a lasting part of one of music’s most famous families. Through her children, her grandchildren, and the foundation created in her honor, her story continues to inspire and connect people even in 2026.
FAQs
Who Was Dee Dee Jackson?
Dee Dee Jackson, born Delores Vilma Martes Jackson, was the first wife of Tito Jackson and the mother of the R&B group 3T. She was a key figure in the Jackson family, known for her strong role as a mother and her connection to music and family life.
How did Dee Dee Jackson meet Tito Jackson?
Dee Dee Jackson met Tito Jackson while both were students at Fairfax High School in Los Angeles. Their relationship began in their teenage years and later led to marriage in 1972.
How many children did Dee Dee Jackson have?
Dee Dee Jackson had three sons: Taj Jackson, Taryll Jackson, and TJ Jackson. All three became members of the music group 3T and built successful careers in music.
What was Dee Dee Jackson’s cause of death?
Dee Dee Jackson passed away on August 27, 1994. Her death was later ruled a homicide, and her boyfriend at the time, Donald James Bohana, was convicted of second-degree murder.
Was Dee Dee Jackson involved in music?
Yes, Dee Dee Jackson had a connection to music. She co-wrote the song “Hey Boy” for Rebbie Jackson’s album Centipede in 1984 and supported her family’s musical careers.
What is the Dee Dee Jackson Foundation?
The Dee Dee Jackson Foundation is a nonprofit organization created by her sons in 2015. It focuses on music therapy and helping people cope with grief and emotional loss.
Did Dee Dee Jackson have grandchildren?
Yes, Dee Dee Jackson had several grandchildren. Some of them include Royal Jackson, Delores “Dee Dee” Jackson (named in her honor), Jo Jo Jackson, and others from her sons’ families.
What is Dee Dee Jackson’s legacy today?
Dee Dee Jackson’s legacy lives on through her children, her grandchildren, and the Dee Dee Jackson Foundation. She is remembered for her role in the Jackson family and her lasting influence on 3T.
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