Maureen Cox: Introduction

Maureen Cox, born Mary Cox on August 4, 1946, in Liverpool, England, became widely known as Maureen Starkey after marrying Ringo Starr of The Beatles. Here is a comprehensive overview of her life, particularly focusing on her time with Ringo Starr:

Early Life

Birth and Childhood: Maureen was born to Joseph Cox and Florence Barrett. She grew up in Liverpool and attended a local Catholic school.
Teenage Years: As a teenager, she worked as a hairdresser. She was also an enthusiastic fan of The Beatles and often attended their performances at the Cavern Club in Liverpool.

Maureen Cox: Her Relationship with Ringo Starr

Meeting Ringo Starr: Maureen met Ringo Starr (born Richard Starkey) in 1962 at the Cavern Club. She was 16 at the time, and their relationship soon blossomed.
Marriage: They married on February 11, 1965, at Caxton Hall Register Office in London. Fellow Beatles John Lennon and George Harrison attended, along with their manager, Brian Epstein.
Children: The couple had three children together.
- Zak Starkey (born September 13, 1965)
- Jason Starkey (born August 19, 1967)
- Lee Starkey (born November 11, 1970)

Life as Maureen Starkey

Role as a Beatles Wife: Maureen was usually the quieter and more private member among the Beatles’ wives. Furthermore, she maintained a low profile and supported Ringo through the intense public and media scrutiny that came with being a Beatle.
Friendship with Other Beatles’ Wives: Maureen was friends with the other Beatles’ wives, such as Cynthia Lennon, Pattie Boyd (George Harrison’s wife), and later Linda McCartney.

Challenges and Public Scrutiny

Infidelity and Personal Struggles: The marriage faced challenges, including Ringo’s infidelities. The pressures of fame and Ringo’s struggles with alcohol also strained their relationship.
Divorce: Maureen and Ringo divorced in 1975 after ten years of marriage. Despite their separation, they maintained a cordial relationship for the sake of their children.

Post-Divorce Life

Second Marriage: After her divorce from Ringo, Maureen married Isaac Tigrett, the founder of the Hard Rock Café, in 1989. They had a daughter, Augusta King Tigrett, born in 1987.
Later Years: Maureen continued to live a relatively private life. Indeed, she was involved in various charitable activities and remained close to her children.

Death

Passing: Maureen Cox Starkey Tigrett passed away on December 30, 1994, at the age of 48. She died from leukemia, and her death was a significant loss to her family and friends, of course. Ringo, along with their children and her second husband, Isaac Tigrett, were by her side during her final days.

Maureen Cox: Legacy

Legacy and Memories: Maureen is remembered fondly by her family and those who knew her. She is often described as a devoted mother and a supportive figure in Ringo Starr’s life during The Beatles’ most tumultuous years.
Maureen Cox was a beloved wife, mother, and friend. Her memory lives on as a symbol of the tragic loss that can come with life’s unexpected challenges.

Maureen Cox’s life, particularly her years with Ringo Starr, is a testament to the personal sacrifices and challenges faced by those close to immense fame. Her story provides a deeper understanding of the human side behind the legendary figures of The Beatles.