Lorraine Taylor Turner is a name that may not ring a bell for many people, but she was once the love of Ike Turner’s life. She was also the mother of two of his children, Ike Jr. and Michael. But who was she, and what happened to her? Is she still alive, or did she meet a tragic fate? This article will explore the life and death of Lorraine Taylor Turner, and reveal the truth about her relationship with Ike Turner.
Lorraine Taylor Turner: The Early Years
Lorraine Taylor was born in 1937 in St. Louis, Missouri. She met Ike Turner when she was 17 years old, and they soon became romantically involved. Ike was already a rising star in the music industry, and he invited Lorraine to join his band, the Kings of Rhythm, as a backup singer. Lorraine also became pregnant with Ike’s child, and gave birth to their first son, Ike Turner Jr., in 1958. A year later, they had another son, Michael Turner.
Lorraine and Ike never officially married, but they lived together as a couple for over a decade. They moved to Los Angeles in 1960, where Ike formed the Ike and Tina Turner Revue with his new discovery, Tina Turner. Lorraine continued to sing with the band, and also helped raise Ike’s other children, including Tina’s son Craig and Ike’s son Ronnie.
Lorraine Taylor Turner: The Turmoil
Lorraine’s relationship with Ike was not a happy one. Ike was abusive, controlling, and unfaithful. He often beat Lorraine, and cheated on her with multiple women, including Tina. Lorraine suffered from depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. She tried to leave Ike several times, but he always convinced her to come back. He also threatened to take away her children if she ever left him for good.
Lorraine’s life took a turn for the worse in 1968, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She underwent a mastectomy, but the cancer had already spread to other parts of her body. She was given only a few months to live. Ike did not support her during her illness, and continued to mistreat her. He also married Tina in 1969, without divorcing Lorraine first. Lorraine felt betrayed and heartbroken by Ike’s actions, and lost all hope for the future.
Lorraine Taylor Turner: The Death
Lorraine Taylor Turner died on October 31, 1970, at the age of 33. She passed away in her home in Los Angeles, surrounded by her children and some friends. Ike did not attend her funeral, and did not pay for her burial. He also did not acknowledge her death publicly, and tried to erase her from his life. He told his children to forget about her, and never mentioned her name again.
Lorraine’s death had a profound impact on her children, especially Ike Jr. and Michael. They felt abandoned by their father, and struggled with their own issues of addiction and mental health. They also felt a deep resentment towards Tina, who they blamed for breaking up their family. They did not have a close relationship with her, and did not consider her as their mother.
Lorraine Taylor Turner: The Legacy
Lorraine Taylor Turner may not have been a famous or influential figure, but she was a human being who deserved respect and dignity. She was a talented singer, a devoted mother, and a loyal partner. She endured a lot of pain and suffering in her life, and did not receive the recognition or support she deserved. She was a victim of domestic violence, and a casualty of the music industry.
Lorraine’s story is not widely known, and has been overshadowed by Ike and Tina’s fame and success. However, some people have tried to honor her memory and bring attention to her plight. In 2023, a documentary titled Lorraine: The Untold Story of Ike Turner’s First Love was released, featuring interviews with her children, friends, and former bandmates. The film revealed the truth about Lorraine’s life and death, and gave her a voice that she never had.
Lorraine Taylor Turner is still alive in the hearts and minds of those who loved her, and those who empathize with her. She is a reminder of the struggles and challenges that many women face in abusive relationships, and the need for awareness and action. She is also a symbol of resilience and courage, and the hope for a better tomorrow.