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R. B. Greaves Obituary
The coroner's office says Ronald Bertram Greaves died of prostate cancer on Sept. 27 at his home.
"Take a Letter, Maria," about a man's final letter to his cheating wife, hit No. 2 on the Billboard chart and went gold. The song, with its soul style and brassy horn edge, went on to sell more than 2.5 million copies and remains a popular oldie.
Greaves also broke into the Top 40 in 1970 with his version of "(There's) Always Something There to Remind Me."
His career flagged in the 1970s, however.
Greaves was a nephew of the legendary R&B singer Sam Cooke.
Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
202 Entries
Tony Arthur
February 13, 2025
I was 8 yrs old when the song 'Letter to Maria' came out. Even then it was one of those songs that just stuck in memory. I never knew who the singer was until I recently googled it and was sad to learn that R.B. Greaves had passed on. RIP....thank you for this memorable song that transcends time.
Elvira Abraham
December 20, 2024
What a blessing a gift to us R.. Greaves. Thank you for sharing your God Given talent with the World. I didn't know you lived in Albuquerque, my hometown. REST-IN-LOVE beloved RB. You'll always be loved and missed! Tears!
August 5, 2024
I really enjoyed hearing Mr. Greaves sing. I wish I could have met him. The family has my condolences.
Eric
July 17, 2024
My father had a 8 track of him I remembered playing it so sad to hear of his death RIP
How you can show support
Carolyn Jones
February 24, 2024
So sorry Mr.R.B. Greaves, Passed away.There was so many songs for him to sing.He had a wonderful voice!Will be truly missed!The Lord has gathered a lot of wonderful singers up there and R.B. is high on that list!
Harry Simpson
April 1, 2023
Godspeed R.B., and thank you for the wonderful music memories, and one of the anthems of my youth, and beyond, "Take a Letter Maria". Unforgettable.
Steve Michaels
September 27, 2020
I was just listening to his song this morning, he truly was an amazing talent. It obviously ran in the family .
Bud Brown
January 14, 2020
One of my best friends and the best man at my wedding. He was the best brother I've ever had. To travel with RB was to experience life anew. He always shined while performing and loved his audiences. To know the real RB and to share so much was a lifetime blessing not just for me, but for everyone. He was and will always be my favorite singer. I loved watching him develop his songs and share his ideas, he cared so much and his heart was so big. There is no friend or person to match this man and friend.
Paul Mcmenamin
December 27, 2019
December 27 2019. You are remembered and so is your wonderful voice.
Becky
November 6, 2016
You were one of the kindest men I ever met. You were such a gentleman the evening I had dinner with you. You are missed!
ann
November 4, 2016
bye Sonny
Joey
July 16, 2015
Thanks for the hits...you left your mark here.
Michael Harris
April 17, 2014
Rest in peace, R.B.
Chris Gutierrez
December 29, 2013
I was blessed with knowing RB for a very short time in Albuquerque, NM. I worked at a music shop and he would stop by every now and then. I remember how happy he was that he had just bought a Gibson Robot guitar. First I was star struck then that quickly waned to respect and admiration. RB had such a pleasant, easy and open disposition. In spanish we call it "tranquilo." Big smiles and fun conversation every time. I was bummed to learn of his death today.
Joey DeLucia
October 31, 2012
Remember what a staple that song was on WABC NY in 1969! Thanks for a wonderful memory! RIP RB! Condolences to your family, friends & fans! Joey.
Sue Klepper
October 24, 2012
You will always hold a special place in our hearts my dear friend. You will be missed. We love you. The Klepper Family
darnelle eccles
October 14, 2012
I remember that song as a little girl rest in peace
veronica/James Floyd
October 12, 2012
I just seen this on internet,, asked my husband if he remembered that song take a letter to maria he said yes I do then we started to sing the song... God Bless the family my mom thought he wrote that song for her, her name is maria...i
Eloise Whiteside
October 11, 2012
May god be with the family.
Love you
Rebecca Beauchesne
October 10, 2012
I use to listen to his music as a small child. He will be missed deeply.
Debora
October 10, 2012
RB Greaves,good man,&Singer, he will be missed rest in peace God bless the flamy
Debbie Jackson
October 10, 2012
My condolences to the Greaves family. His talent will certainly be missed.
During this time of grief, may the God of all Comfort be a help readily to be during distress. Psalm 46:1
October 9, 2012
May the GOD OF PEACE AND COMFORT,console the family in this their hour of need.
~mebane~
Karen Harris
October 8, 2012
So very sorry to read of Mr. Greaves passing he will be dearly missed. My prayers are with his family and friends.
Anne Bruner
October 8, 2012
I remember his song,meant so much to my teen years!
October 8, 2012
My sincere condolences to the Greaves family. He is resting peacefully Eccl.9:5
jeanette wickham
October 8, 2012
sorry to hear of this great artist's death - his songs were my favorites in my teenage years
Tony Carter
October 8, 2012
I loved your music. Thank you for the enjoyment your music brought to us.
B Leonard
October 8, 2012
It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.
pc rodriguez
October 8, 2012
"He [God] has set a day in which he purposes to judge the inhabited earth in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed, and he has furnished a guarantee to all men in that he has resurrected him from the dead." Acts 17:31
Kirk
October 8, 2012
I enjoyed your good music...Thank You. May you rest in peace, Amen.
October 8, 2012
Hey bro R.I.P I grew up on your music back in the day........Terrone
Thomas
October 8, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
J g
October 8, 2012
My deepest sympathy goes out to your family for your loss. May the God of all comfort grant you peace at this time
Fan of the Song/Singer
October 8, 2012
A Man who made a Legacy as a Gifted Singer and was matched with the perfect song that will never be forgotten.
Rest in Peace, Dear MR. R. B. Greaves and condolences to your family for their significant loss.
Maria
October 8, 2012
Rest in Peace Mr. Greaves. May your family seek comfort in your songs and happy memories during this trying time. God added another voice to the his choir.
Wilma Scott
October 7, 2012
I Remember Both Of Your Songs!! I Was A Young Girl but I Loved Hearing Your Songs!! Rest In Peace!!
Wilma Scott
October 7, 2012
Rest In Peace!! Pray You're Resting In Heaven!!
Kelisha
October 7, 2012
Another huge loss for the music industry... I'm sad...
Mary James
October 7, 2012
Rest in peace
LENORE CALVERT
October 7, 2012
sending my condolences to the family..I love this song. My (MOTHER rip..D.J.H.S.) played it a lot, keeping the family in prayer . shouts out from kansas city missouri...lenore hardin calvert
October 7, 2012
May the sweet and loving memories of your Love One, rest on your minds now and forever. His music will be heard in our minds forever and always.S.Hunl (VA)
October 7, 2012
A Wonderful Singer has left. His songs will always be sung. A Fan
Maria Henry
October 7, 2012
my condolences to the family of this amazing singer. I was born in 1969 on Sept 28. I loved that song and still have the 45 of it as Maria is my name. I play it for my grandchildren when they are in the car and they love it too. It is sad to hear of his passing and his voice was wonderful.
Liz Brown
October 7, 2012
Rest in Peace in the arms of our Heavenly Father. To the family, please accept our condolences.
October 7, 2012
Such an amazing voice. No doubt he took advantage of such a gift. May the family take comfort in God and keep faith in the hope of everlasting life. John 17:3
October 7, 2012
Loved that song!! He had a great voice.
virginia smith
October 7, 2012
another great singer has gone, but will not be forgotten. i have enjoyed his songs and will remember him and them with fondness. may God grant peace to his family. you have my condolences
L.A Crowell
October 7, 2012
R.I.P In Paradise
C Bray
October 7, 2012
To the Greaves family: May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared comfort you now and in the days ahead. Matthew 5;4
October 7, 2012
My condolences to the family.
Edith Repp
October 7, 2012
I have it in my iTunes! God bless!
October 7, 2012
What a lovely song. I am humming as I write to express my deep sympathy. Romans 15:33.
Atty. Clorius Lay
October 7, 2012
"This World is the Land of the Dying; The Next is the Land of the Living."
LORD, Protect and Keep Him! With Deepest Sympathy.
Tom Painter
October 7, 2012
May you rest in Peace and never feel pain or sickness ever again. Thanks for all the great music when music was worth listening to
October 6, 2012
another star shines brighter...
Kim White
October 6, 2012
How sad! That song is a classic! RIP.
gena
October 6, 2012
gone but not forgotten all my luv
JJ Sherman
October 6, 2012
I loved that song "Take A Letter to Maria" May you rest in peace and sing with the Lord and his angels.
Reggie Counce
October 6, 2012
Another sweet sound...on the "NIGHT SHIFT"
paula taylor
October 6, 2012
May you rest in peace.
L.J. Sanchez
October 6, 2012
May God have received you with opened arms.Loved all Your Music along with Sam Cooke your Uncle.Gone To Soon But Will Not Ever Be Forgotten.Deepest Condolences & Sympathy & Strength,Comfort @ your time of Sorrow to all family members & friends.God Bless Everyone.With Lots of Love A Fan Lupita
L.J. Sanchez
October 6, 2012
May God have received you with opened arms.Loved all Your Music along with Sam Cooke your Uncle.Also Gone To Soon But Will Not Ever Be Forgotten.Deepest Condolences & Sympathy & Strength,Comfort @ your time of Sorrow to all family members & friends.God Bless Everyone.With Lots of Love A Fan Lupita
Emma J.
October 6, 2012
To the Greaves Family,
God has promise to, " help you and comfort you."--Psalms 86:17
Sorry for your loss.
October 6, 2012
There will be another sweet voice in heaven now.Rest in peace, R.B. You deserve it.!! God bless you and your family. Stephen Harris [email protected]
October 6, 2012
i loved the songs that mr greaves sang, he will be sadly missed, what great talent, rest in the LORD's loving arms!!!!
October 6, 2012
"it just so happens I free tonight would you like to have dinner with me." Best lyrics ever.
October 6, 2012
To the family: Be courageous and strong. When your strength is gone and endurance tested. Do not suffer shock or be terrified for God is with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9) With deepest sympathy.
Kat Shotz
October 6, 2012
Sorry, I meant to say RB's cousin Sam Cooke, NOT his Uncle.
I apologize to the Family.
Kat Shotz
October 6, 2012
R.I.P Mr Greaves
I'm 66 and I grew up with your songs. I loved you and of course your Uncle, the legendary Sam Cooke. I sang my heart out to the songs you made and still do! Your career should have blossemed, You had a velvet voice, and velvet looks.
My sincere condolences to the Greaves Family, and all who loved him.
I lost my husband to Prostrate cancer as well. Also at too young an age.
May you find strength and courage through your journey without him.
G-D Bless you.
kimmy harris
October 6, 2012
a awesome song, i still sing it, R.I.P
Evelyn Roberts
October 6, 2012
I just listened to your popular "Take a letter Maria", and I could tell you were related to Sam Cooke. What a wonderful singer. May you rest in peace.
C.W
October 6, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
SD
October 6, 2012
We lost an entertainer, but he was someone's brother, son, uncle and grandpa. Many condolences to the family. May you all find find comfort through God's love but also each other and the many memories you have of Mr. Greaves.
Linda
October 6, 2012
May God's gentle peace fill your heartand comfort your soul today and
in the days to come, I am so very sorry for your loss. As you cherish
fond memories also know that God is with you and will provide peace
and hope in the days ahead
October 6, 2012
You have my deepest sympathy. May good memories provide solace for your family during this challenging time; and may God provide you with the assurance that you will see your loved one again in paradise. John 17:3
Williams
October 6, 2012
We are sorry for the loss of your love one. May God comfort you. Matthew 11:28-30
BOBBIE SIGERS
October 6, 2012
RIP Mr. R.B. Greaves:
A memorable icon.
October 6, 2012
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember listening to your songs, they were beautiful and very unique. You are now singing with the angels in Heaven and God. I grew up with your uncle and dancing to all of his music. You are just two years younger then me.I would sing your songs a lot. An rdent fan, Sandra Slater, Louisville Ky
michelle plakas-kaiser
October 6, 2012
rip
Benita J. Williams
October 6, 2012
Abound and Singing With The Heavenly Angels. The Voice that Join the Voices that Rocks.
October 6, 2012
My condolence to the Greaves family.May the God of comfort help you through this difficult time.
October 6, 2012
rest in peace bro.
October 6, 2012
God speed R.B. Greaves! You are now with many great souls! Thanks for your great songs, and mesmerizing talents!
MJLee. (San Francisco)
S. Moore
October 6, 2012
My deepest sympthy to his kids and to the family. May God be with you in this time of grief. He had the voice of an angel and his songs will live on forever. It seems we're losing all of the greatest artist too young and an era of music made that was better then any music today will ever be. RIP RB
Pam Martin
October 5, 2012
I was graduating from high school in 1969 & I loved your song. God bless the family & may you RIP. Amen
bob
October 5, 2012
R.I.P. R. B.
Harry Simpson
October 5, 2012
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Mary Margaret Jones
October 5, 2012
You will remain in my heart forever. What an incredible gift you gave us.Your beautiful personality through your voice and song.Thank you.We will join you in heaven
carolyn mosby
October 5, 2012
What a glorious day when we meet again, our love ones that went home before us. God bless until then
Hope
October 5, 2012
What a voice, it is my prayer that you are now singing with the angels.
Mary Green
October 5, 2012
May he rest in peace in the love of God.
T. Y.
October 5, 2012
I am so very sorry for your loss.
“For God loved the world so much
that he gave his only-begotten Son,
in order that everyone exercising faith
in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.”
(John 3:16)
Now we have hope and we can cope.
Scott Chamberland
October 5, 2012
Rest in Peace
October 5, 2012
Like his "Always Something there to Remind Me" best and will remember him with that song.
Rich Draugelis
October 5, 2012
May he rest in peace.
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