Bobby Whitlock, the soulful voice and keyboardist who co-founded Derek and the Dominos, was a musician whose career left a lasting mark on rock history. While fans know him for his collaborations with Eric Clapton and timeless tracks like Bell Bottom Blues and Layla, Whitlock was also a devoted family man who kept his personal life largely out of the public eye.
A Life Partner in Music and Love
Whitlock was married to CoCo Carmel Whitlock, a singer, songwriter, and producer in her own right. The pair formed both a creative and personal partnership, performing together on stage and collaborating on recording projects. Their relationship was marked by a shared love of music, mutual respect, and a desire to live life away from the constant glare of the spotlight.
Children and Extended Family
Bobby Whitlock is survived by his children — Ashley Brown, Beau Whitlock, and Tim Whitlock Kelly — who have largely stayed out of the public eye. Despite his fame, Whitlock maintained a strong commitment to keeping family life private, allowing his children to live away from media attention.
He is also survived by his sister, Debbie Wade, who remained a supportive figure throughout his journey from Memphis to international fame.
A Quiet, Grounded Home Life
Friends and collaborators have often described Whitlock as warm, grounded, and fiercely loyal to his family. Whether on the road performing or at home in Texas, he prioritized time with loved ones, valuing the simple joys of togetherness over celebrity life.
