Engelbert Humperdinck was married to Patricia Healey. In 1964, lifelong Catholics Engelbert and Patricia exchanged vows, marking the beginning of a remarkable partnership. Their love story had its roots in a chance meeting at the Palais de Danse, a nightclub in Leicester. Little did they know that this encounter would blossom into a lifelong commitment.
The couple, deeply rooted in their Catholic faith, navigated the highs and lows of life together. With homes in both the UK and the US, they built a life that revolved around family, faith, and, of course, Engelbert’s illustrious music career.
Challenges and Triumphs
Their journey wasn’t without challenges. Patricia once humorously remarked that she could paper their bedroom with paternity lawsuits filed against her husband. Engelbert faced legal battles related to paternity suits during the 1970s and 1980s. In 1988, he even filed a libel suit against the National Enquirer, stemming from allegations made by Kathy Jetter, the mother of one of his children. Despite the legal turbulence, their love endured.
A Heartfelt Goodbye
In 2017, Engelbert revealed a deeply personal and challenging chapter of their lives—Patricia had been battling Alzheimer’s disease for a decade. This revelation highlighted the strength of their bond as Engelbert stood by his wife throughout the difficulties that Alzheimer’s presented.
Tragically, Patricia Healey’s journey came to an end on 5 February 2021. Complicated by COVID-19, her passing marked the close of a beautiful chapter in Engelbert’s life. He shared the poignant moment when the family gathered to pray with her, blessing her with water from Lourdes, as she peacefully slipped away.
Legacy of Love
Engelbert and Patricia’s love story, though marked by challenges, stands as a testament to the enduring power of love and commitment. Their journey, from a chance meeting in a nightclub to a lifetime of shared joys and sorrows, remains an inspiration. Engelbert’s openness about Patricia’s Alzheimer’s battle and her subsequent passing has also raised awareness about the impact of the disease on families.