Some love stories begin long before the world knows the names of the people involved. For Clineice Stubbs, a remarkable chapter of her life began in the historic Black entertainment community of Idlewild, Michigan, where she met the man who would become her husband and share nearly five decades of marriage with her.
Clineice Stubbs, beloved wife of the late Levi Stubbs, legendary lead singer of the Four Tops, has sadly passed away. The Four Tops confirmed her death in an emotional tribute, extending condolences to the entire Stubbs family.
Born Clineice Townsend, she reportedly met Levi in Idlewild during the 1950s, when his group, then known as the Four Aims, performed at the popular African American resort destination. Clineice was working as a showgirl dancer, part of the vibrant entertainment community that made Idlewild famous.
The couple married in 1960, three years before the Four Tops signed with Motown Records. Their marriage lasted 48 years until Levi’s death in 2008. Together, they raised five children and built a family through decades of musical success and personal milestones.
Although Clineice was widely known through her connection to Levi, she also had her own place in Idlewild’s entertainment history.
The family has invited those wishing to honour her memory to make memorial donations to the Motown Museum.
Her passing marks the loss of a mother, grandmother, performer, and devoted partner. May her family find comfort in the beautiful memories of a life filled with love and lasting connections. May Clineice Stubbs rest in peace.
