Marvin Gaye

Birth Name: Marvin Pentz Gay, Jr.

Date of Birth: April 2, 1939

Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., U.S.

Date of Death: April 1, 1984

Place of Death: Los Angeles, California, U.S.

Ethnicity: African-American

Marvin Gaye was an American R&B and soul singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer. His songs include “How Sweet It Is (to Be Loved by You),” “Ain’t That Peculiar,” “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “What’s Going On,” “Sexual Healing,” and his rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner;” and, in collaboration, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “You’re All I Need to Get By.” He was known as the “Prince of Motown” and “Prince of Soul.”

Marvin was the son of Alberta Williams (Cooper) and Marvin Pentz Gay, Sr., who was a Pentecostal minister. His father was born in Catnip, Jessamine County, Kentucky. His mother was born in Rocky Mount, Nash County, North Carolina. Marvin was shot and killed by his father after an argument.

Marvin was married to businessperson and musician Anna Gordy Gaye, who was the sister of producer Berry Gordy; and then to Janis Hunter. He had a son whom he adopted from his wife’s niece, actress and singer Denise Gory; and model, singer, and actress Nona Gaye, and Frankie Gay, with Janis. Marvin III is the half-brother of actress Bianca Lawson.

Marvin’s paternal grandfather was George Gay (the son of Strawden/Strother Gay and Rebecca Hardin/Garrett or Susan Fuller). George was born in Lexington, Fayette County, Kentucky.

Marvin’s paternal grandmother was Marnie/Mamie Mae Watkins (the daughter of Dan/Daniel Watkins and Charlotte Smith/West). Marnie was born in Lexington, Fayette County, Kentucky. Charlotte was the daughter of Robert/Bob West and Alsie Starks.

Marvin’s maternal grandfather was named Sam Cooper (the son of Sally Cooper). Sam was born in Nash County, North Carolina. Sally’s partner, Marvin’s great-grandfather, was said to be white. It is not clear if this is accurate.

Marvin’s maternal grandmother was named Ruth/Lucy Smith. Lucy was born in North Carolina.

Rapper Masta Killa‘s father has said that he was a cousin of Marvin. It is not clear if this is accurate.

Sources: Genealogies of Marvin Gaye – http://www.geni.com
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