Is Debraca Denise Still Alive?
Yes; Debraca Denise is still alive as of 2025. Now in her late seventies, she reportedly resides in the United States, living a more quiet life away from cameras and public attention.
She last made public appearances in the 1990s during lawsuits and legal proceedings related to her late father’s estate; which included legal battle with her father’s last wife, Ka Ho Cho. Since then, Debraca has maintained strict privacy, reflecting her lifelong preference to stay out of Hollywood drama.
Well, now… here’s everything there to know about her today. :))
Who Is Debraca Denise?
Debraca Denise may not be a household name like her stepfather Redd Foxx, but she remains part of one of comedy’s most legendary families. She is known as Redd Foxx’s adopted daughter, and lived a life that mixed glamour, fame, and later, privacy.
Born to Betty Jean Harris, a singer and showgirl, Debraca was adopted by Foxx after he married Betty in 1956. Though she grew up surrounded by stars, she largely avoided the limelight and has preferred to live quietly.
Her story often sparks interest from fans of Sanford and Son and those who still celebrate Redd Foxx’s lasting impact on comedy.
Debraca Denise Wiki Summary
| Full Name | Debraca Denise Foxx |
| Date of Birth | 1947 |
| Age | 78 years old |
| Place of Birth | United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Weight | 60 kg (132 lbs) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Husband | Ralph Russell (m. 1975) |
| Children | One son; Paul Hiles |
| Parents | Betty Jean Harris (mother), Redd Foxx (adoptive father) |
| Profession | Former actress, homemaker |
| Net Worth | Approx. $500k thousand (est.) |
Early Life and Background
Debraca Denise-Foxx was born in 1947 in the United States to Betty Jean Harris, a well-known nightclub singer and dancer. Betty raised Debraca as a single mother until she met Redd Foxx, who adopted Debraca after marrying Betty in 1956.
Growing up in the Foxx household meant being surrounded by entertainers and celebrities, but Debraca didn’t follow that path for long. She appeared briefly in entertainment but later chose a life of privacy and stability instead.
Who Was Debraca Denise’s Mother, Betty Jean Harris?
Betty Jean Harris was a talented showgirl and singer who met Redd Foxx during a nightclub performance. They married in July 1956, and Foxx officially adopted Betty’s daughter, Debraca, who was only nine years old. After her adoption, she took Redd Foxx’s last name, Debraca Denise-Foxx.
Betty left her performing career to focus on family life and even helped manage Redd’s business affairs during his career peak. Their marriage lasted 18 years, ending in 1974 after Redd filed for divorce.
Despite their separation, Betty continued to play an influential role in Debraca’s life and no, Foxx did not disown Debraca Foxx after his marriage with her mother ended.
Stepfather Redd Foxx: The Comedy Legend
Redd Foxx, born John Elroy Sanford, was one of America’s most influential comedians, best remembered for his role as Fred G. Sanford in the hit sitcom Sanford and Son (1972 – 1978).
He became Debraca’s adoptive father and gave her a front-row seat to the world of Hollywood’s brightest stars. Redd and Debraca had a warm, loving relationship despite his busy schedule. He later named her the executor of his estate before his death in 1991.
Debraca and Redd Foxx’s Relationship
The bond between Debraca Denise Foxx and Redd Foxx was strong, though not without challenges. After his death, she was appointed executor of his estate, which led to legal disputes with his fourth wife, Ka Ho Cho, over estate management.
Despite the tension, it’s clear Redd deeply loved Debraca and trusted her completely. Their father-daughter relationship, though built through adoption, showed genuine love and connection.
Education and Early Life
While there isn’t much public information about where Debraca studied, sources suggest she attended schools in California during her youth. Growing up around entertainers likely shaped her brief interest in acting, though she didn’t make it her lifelong career.
Is Debraca Denise Married? Who Is Her Husband?
Yes. Debraca Denise Foxx is still married to her husband. Now, she got married to Ralph Russell, a Los Angeles businessman, in June 1975. Their grand wedding was held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, reportedly costing $40k thousand, a huge sum at the time.
For what it’s worth, though, her adoptive father, Redd Foxx, did not attend her wedding due to lingering tension from his divorce from Betty Harris. However, they later reconciled, and Debraca and her husband went on to build a happy life together.
Does Debraca Denise Have Children?
Yes, Debraca and her husband, Ralph Russell, share one son named Paul Hiles. Very little is known about their son, Paul, as the family has chosen to stay completely out of the public spotlight.
But, they do still live in the United States and their son, Paul Hiles, is, in fact, married with kids.
Acting Career
Though she preferred a private life, Debraca Denise did have a few acting credits. She appeared in one episode of Sanford and Son in 1977, playing Doris Martin, and later made a small appearance in its sequel, Sanford (1980).
In 2015, she was featured in Unsung Hollywood, a TV documentary series that profiled influential Black entertainers, where she appeared in connection with Redd Foxx’s story.
Legal Disputes After Redd Foxx’s Death
When her stepfather, Redd Foxx, passed away from a heart attack on October 11, 1991, he left behind massive debts; around $3.5 million owed to the IRS.
Debraca was appointed executor of his estate but faced legal battles with his widow Ka Ho Cho, who accused her of mishandling revenue from royalties and licensing.
A Nevada probate court eventually replaced Debraca with a public administrator, John J. Cahill, in 2006. Cahill later announced in 2010 that the main goal was to settle the estate’s taxes and protect the comedian’s legacy.
Net Worth
Debraca Denise’s net worth is estimated at $500k thousand. While her father died with a negative net worth of -$3.5 million, Debraca has maintained financial stability through smart investments and inheritance management over the years.
Age and Appearance
Born in 1947, Debraca is currently 78 years old. She stands at 5 feet 5 inches tall (165 cm) and weighs about 132 lbs (60 kg).
Despite her age, she is said to have aged gracefully; known for her quiet poise and resemblance to her mother, Betty Jean Harris.
Grandparents & Family Ancestry
Debraca Denise Foxx’s biological ancestry traces back to African-American roots through her mother, Betty Jean Harris. Her adoptive lineage connects her to Redd Foxx’s family from St. Louis, Missouri, where Foxx was born into a working-class household.
Though Redd Foxx had no biological children, he considered Debraca his true daughter and heir, solidifying her place in his legacy.
Where Is Debraca Denise Today?
Today, Debraca lives quietly in the United States, with her husband, Ralph Russell, far away from Hollywood. She has avoided interviews and public appearances for decades. Although her son, Paul Hiles, is said to be currently married with children.
Her last known involvement in media was related to Unsung Hollywood in 2015. She continues to honor her father’s memory privately while living a calm, family-centered life.
Why Is Debraca Denise Still Talked About Today?
Fans of Redd Foxx and Sanford and Son continue to search for her because of the ongoing fascination with her father’s life story.
Even though she avoids fame, Debraca remains part of cultural history through documentaries, articles, and fan discussions celebrating Redd Foxx’s contribution to comedy.
Debraca Denise Foxx Quick Facts
- Born in 1947 in the United States
- Adopted daughter of Redd Foxx
- Married to Ralph Russell since 1975
- Mother of Paul Hiles
- Appeared in Sanford and Son (1977) and Sanford (1980)
- Featured in Unsung Hollywood (2015)
- Estimated net worth: $500k thousand
- Still alive as of 2025
FAQs About Debraca Denise
Is Debraca Denise-Foxx still alive? Yes, she’s alive and lives a private life in the U.S.
What is Debraca Denise-Foxx’s age? She is currently 78 years old.
Who were Debraca Denise-Foxx’s parents? Her mother was Betty Jean Harris, and her adoptive father was Redd Foxx.
Who is Debraca Denise-Foxx’s husband? Debraca is married to Ralph Russell, a businessman.
Does Debraca Denise-Foxx have children? Yes, she has one son named Paul Hiles.
What is Debraca Denise-Foxx’s net worth? Her estimated net worth is $500k thousand.
Where is Debraca Denise-Foxx Today? She still lives in the U.S. with her husband and avoids public media.
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