Updated: February 26, 2026
Mary Cosby, the bold and unapologetic star of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, has always sparked curiosity with her unconventional life choices. From leading her family’s church to navigating reality TV drama, her story is full of layers. But before her headline-grabbing marriage to Bishop Robert Cosby Sr., there was another chapter: her first husband. This lesser-known part of her journey offers insight into the path that led her to where she is today.
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Who Was Mary Cosby’s First Husband?
Mary Cosby (born Mary Martha Jefferson on October 17, 1972) was previously married to a man named Dana Harris. This was her first marriage, which took place before she rose to fame. Details about Dana Harris remain relatively private, as he has stayed out of the spotlight compared to Mary’s later high-profile life.
The marriage ended in divorce in September 1998. Interestingly, this divorce happened just weeks before Mary tied the knot with Robert Cosby Sr. on September 28, 1998, in Chicago. Sources close to the story suggest the transition was tied to family expectations following the death of Mary’s grandmother, Rosemary Cosby, in January 1997.
- Key facts about the first marriage:
- Husband: Dana Harris
- Duration: Exact start date unclear, but ended in September 1998
- No children from this marriage (Mary later had one son with her current husband)
- Low public profile: Dana has not appeared in media or reality TV discussions
This early relationship is often overshadowed by the controversy surrounding Mary’s second (and current) marriage, but it marks an important transition in her personal life.
The Transition: From First Marriage to an “Arranged” Union
After her grandmother Rosemary’s passing, Mary inherited significant responsibilities, including leadership at Faith Temple Pentecostal Church in Salt Lake City. Rosemary had been married to Robert Cosby Sr. (Mary’s step-grandfather, not biological), and reportedly expressed a strong wish for Mary to step into her role—including marrying Robert Sr. to maintain family and church continuity.
Mary has described this second marriage as somewhat “arranged,” honoring her grandmother’s wishes. She was around 25-26 years old at the time (though she once mentioned feeling younger in retellings). The quick timeline—divorcing Dana Harris and marrying Robert Sr. shortly after—has fueled speculation and discussions among fans.
- Timeline highlights:
- January 1997: Rosemary Cosby passes away
- September 1998: Divorce from Dana Harris finalized
- September 28, 1998: Marriage to Robert Cosby Sr.
- 2005 (approx.): Son Robert Cosby Jr. born (tragically, he passed away in February 2026 at age 23 after struggles with addiction)
This shift wasn’t just romantic—it involved inheriting church duties, properties, and leadership as First Lady.
Key Details at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview of Mary’s marital history and related info:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| First Husband | Dana Harris |
| Marriage End Date | September 1998 (divorce) |
| Second Husband | Robert Cosby Sr. (Bishop) |
| Second Marriage Date | September 28, 1998 |
| Location of Wedding | Chicago, Illinois (Ritz-Carlton) |
| Children | One son, Robert Cosby Jr. (2005–2026) |
| Church Role | First Lady of Faith Temple Pentecostal Church |
| Notable Context | Second marriage followed grandmother’s wishes; no biological relation to Robert Sr. |
This table captures the essentials without the surrounding drama.
Why This Story Still Captivates Fans
Mary’s journey from a private first marriage to becoming a reality TV figure and church leader is fascinating. The contrast between her early life and the bold personality we see on RHOSLC highlights her resilience. While the first husband chapter is brief and low-key, it set the stage for the life-altering decisions that followed.
Fans often debate the circumstances, but Mary has stood firm in her choices, emphasizing family legacy and faith. In recent years, amid personal losses like her son’s passing, she has leaned on her support system—including her long-time husband Robert Sr.
Conclusion: A Life of Bold Choices and Faith
Mary Cosby’s first husband, Dana Harris, represents a quieter era before the cameras, church leadership, and Bravo fame. Though details are sparse, this early marriage and its end paved the way for the unconventional path she chose—one defined by duty, controversy, and enduring commitment.
Today, as she navigates grief and continues sharing her story, Mary remains a polarizing yet compelling figure. Her life reminds us that family legacies can lead to unexpected turns, and sometimes, honoring the past means forging a very different future. Whether you view it as destiny or decision, it’s undeniably part of what makes Mary Cosby unforgettable.