Harold George Bellanfanti Sr was best known as the father of Harry Belafonte, a Jamaican-American singer, songwriter, actor, and activist who was widely considered one of the most successful Jamaican-American pop stars in history.
However, there is much more to know about Harold Bellanfanti Sr, including his background, education, family, and career. In this article, we will explore the life of Harold Bellanfanti Sr in detail.
Harold George Bellanfanti Sr Age and Zodiac
Harold George Bellanfanti Sr., more commonly known as Harry Belafonte’s father, was a significant figure in his own right. Born on August 1, 1900, in Martinique, Bellanfanti lived a long and eventful life before passing away at the age of 89.
While Belafonte’s fame and fortune may have overshadowed his father’s achievements in the public eye, Bellanfanti played an important role in shaping his son’s worldview and artistic vision.

As for Bellanfanti’s zodiac sign, it would be Leo, as his birthday falls on August 1st. Leos are known for their creativity, leadership qualities, and outgoing personalities, traits that Bellanfanti seemed to possess in abundance.
School and Academics
In terms of education, Bellanfanti received his early schooling at a private school. While little is known about the specifics of his education, it’s safe to assume that he received a solid foundation in reading, writing, and arithmetic. However, Bellanfanti’s life would take him down a very different path than that of a traditional academic.
Name | Harold George Bellanfanti Sr. |
Birthday | 1 August 1900 |
Age | 89 years old (at death time) |
Birthplace | Martinique |
Zodiac | Leo |
Parents | George Bellanfanti and Melissa Marley |
Siblings | N/A |
Spouse | Melvine Bellanfanti |
Marital Status | Married |
Relationship | Committed |
Girlfriend | Melvine Bellanfanti |
Kids | Harry Belafonte |
Grandchildren | Shari Belafonte David Belafonte Gina Belafonte Adrienne Belafonte Biesemeyer |
Career | Chef |
What is Harold George Bellanfanti Sr Death Cause?
On May 2, 1990, Harold George Bellanfanti Sr passed away in New York City at the age of 89 due to a brain tumor. His death was a great loss to his family and the community, as he was widely respected for his achievements and contributions to society. Bellanfanti Sr. lived a long and fruitful life, leaving behind a legacy of service and leadership.
His death was mourned by his family, friends, and the community he had served so diligently. He was a true inspiration to all who knew him and a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, determination, and a commitment to making the world a better place.
Harold George Bellanfanti Sr Family Members
Harry Belafonte’s father, George Bellanfanti, was a Dutch-Jewish father, who immigrated to the United States in the late 1800s. On the other side, his mother named Melissa Marley was a Black American woman. Harold George faced discrimination and prejudice because of his mixed heritage.
However, he was determined to succeed in life and worked hard to provide for his family. Not much is known about Harold George Bellanfanti Sr.’s siblings, as they have largely remained out of the public eye.
Harold George Bellanfanti Sr Wife and Children
Bellanfanti was married to Melvine Bellanfanti, who was also Jamaican. The couple tied the knot, and they had only one child, Harry Belafonte. Despite their marriage being a happy one, it was not without its challenges. Harold George Bellanfanti Sr was a devoted husband who adored his wife and often spoke about her with great affection.

He credited her for being his rock and the driving force behind his success. Melvine was his inspiration, and he often drew from her strength and wisdom to navigate life’s challenges. Despite their challenges, the couple managed to raise their son, Harry, with great care and love.
Harry Belafonte, born in 1927, was a legendary musician, actor, and civil rights activist. He has often credited his parents for his success and the values they instilled in him. Also, he had 4 grandchildren named Shari Belafonte, David Belafonte, Gina Belafonte, and Adrienne Belafonte Biesemeyer.
A Look Into Harry Belafonte’s Life
Harry Belafonte married three times in his past. His current wife was Pamela Frank, whom he married in 2008. Pamela is a former dancer, and she has worked as a choreographer for various productions. Before Pamela, he was wedded to Julie Robinson and Marguerite Belafonte.

Harry Belafonte was known for his activism work. He was involved in civil rights movements and has worked with various organizations to fight for social justice. He was a close friend and supporter of Martin Luther King Jr. and was involved in the Civil Rights Movement.
Harry worked with UNICEF and other humanitarian organizations to promote peace and human rights. Moreover, he died of heart failure on 25 April 2023.
Career – As a Chef
Bellanfanti’s culinary skills were highly respected in the industry, and he was known for his expertise in both French and Caribbean cuisine. Harold George Bellanfanti Sr worked at several other prominent hotels throughout his career.

In addition to his work as a chef, he was also an active member of the American Culinary Federation and was known for his dedication to the advancement of the culinary arts. Despite his success in the culinary world, Bellanfanti’s true passion was sailing. He was an experienced sailor and owned several boats throughout his life.
What was Harold George Bellanfanti Sr’s Net worth?
While Bellanfanti’s net worth is not publicly known, it is clear that he achieved a great deal of success and respect in his various careers. His legacy lives on through his son, Harry Belafonte, who went on to become one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Belafonte has often spoken about the impact that his father had on his life and career and has credited him with instilling in him a sense of pride in his Jamaican heritage.
Height and Weight
Height | 5’10” |
Weight | 81 kg |
Hair Color | Brown |
Eyes Color | Brown |
Tattoos | N/A |
Piercing | N/A |
Education | Graduate |
Alma Mater | Local School |
Ethnicity | Mixed |
Nationality | French |
Religion | Christian |
Homepage | Click Here |
Interesting Facts
- Harold George Bellanfanti Sr was born in Martinique in 1900.
- He married a Jamaican housekeeper named Melvine Love.
- Bellanfanti Sr. played an important role in shaping his son’s values and worldview, instilling in him a sense of social responsibility and a commitment to justice and equality.
- Despite facing many challenges as a Black man in America, Bellanfanti Sr. remained optimistic and never lost faith in the power of music and spirituality to bring people together.
Q/A
Who was Harold George Bellanfanti Sr?
Harold George Bellanfanti Sr was the father of American singer, songwriter, and actor Harry Belafonte.
What was Harold George Bellanfanti Sr’s occupation?
He was a Chef by profession.
When and where was Harold George Bellanfanti Sr born?
He was born on 1 August 1900 in Martinique.
When did Harold George Bellanfanti Sr pass away?
He died on 2 May 1990 because of a brain tumor.