7 Surprising Facts About Timothy Mowry: The Military Veteran Father Of Tia And Tamera

Timothy Mowry, the dedicated father of Hollywood twins Tia and Tamera Mowry, is a man whose life story is as compelling as his daughters' careers. Unlike his celebrity children, Timothy has maintained a life largely outside the spotlight, built on a foundation of rigorous military service and unwavering family support. As of late 2025, fans are still curious about the patriarch of the Mowry family, especially following the public news of his 2015 divorce from Darlene Mowry and his continued close relationship with his four children.

This deep dive into Timothy Mowry’s life reveals the incredible sacrifices he and his former wife made, from their time stationed in Germany to his post-military career as a custody officer, all to ensure his children—Tia, Tamera, Tahj, and Tavior—had the structure and support needed to thrive in the demanding world of entertainment. His influence is a foundational element of the Mowry siblings' success, making his personal biography essential to understanding the family's journey.

Timothy Mowry: A Detailed Biography

The man who raised two of television's most beloved twins has a rich history rooted in military discipline and a passion for family. His background is a fascinating blend of cultures and careers, setting the stage for the unique Mowry family dynamic.

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• Full Name: Timothy John Mowry
• Date of Birth: January 4, 1957
• Age (as of 2025): 68 years old
• Place of Birth: United States
• Ethnicity/Descent: English and Irish descent
• Former Spouse: Darlene Rene Mowry (Afro-Bahamian descent)
• Marriage/Divorce: Married Darlene Mowry; Divorced in 2015 after 40 years of marriage.
• Children: Tia Mowry, Tamera Mowry (twins), Tahj Mowry, and Tavior Mowry.
• Military Career: Served in the U.S. Army, achieving the rank of First Sergeant.
• Post-Military Career: Worked as a custody officer for the Glendale Police Department in California. Some sources also refer to him as a retired veteran and parole officer.
• Current Status: Retired veteran, maintaining a close relationship with his children and former wife, and is in a new relationship.

The U.S. Army Life: From First Sergeant to Fatherhood

Timothy Mowry’s early life and the foundation of the Mowry family are inextricably linked to his distinguished military career. His service in the U.S. Army shaped not only his character but also the environment in which his famous children were raised.

A Highly Decorated Military Veteran. Timothy served for many years in the United States Army, eventually achieving the impressive rank of First Sergeant. This demanding role required leadership, discipline, and a commitment to service, qualities that he later instilled in his children. He and Darlene Mowry, who was a drill sergeant, were both stationed in the Army when their children were born, a truly unique start for a Hollywood family.

Tia and Tamera's Birthplace. The twin sisters, Tia and Tamera, were actually born in Gelnhausen, West Germany, while their parents were stationed abroad. This international beginning is a testament to the family's commitment to Timothy’s military duties and the adventurous spirit of their early years. The Mowry family moved frequently, a common experience for military families, before ultimately settling in California to support the twins' burgeoning acting careers.

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The Influence of Military Discipline. While Darlene left the Army to manage her daughters' careers, Timothy continued his service for a time. The structure and discipline of military life were deeply ingrained in the Mowry household. This stability and emphasis on hard work are frequently credited by Tia and Tamera as crucial to their success and ability to navigate the pressures of child stardom. Timothy ensured that his children always prioritized their academic success alongside their acting commitments, emphasizing the importance of education.

Post-Military Service. Upon retiring from the military, Timothy Mowry transitioned into a new chapter of public service. He relocated to California and began working as a custody officer for the Glendale Police Department. This career path continued his dedication to law enforcement and community safety, demonstrating a consistent commitment to a life of service even after leaving the Army.

The Shocking 2015 Divorce and Co-Parenting Today

One of the most significant and public-facing events in Timothy Mowry’s life was his divorce from Darlene Mowry. After 40 years of marriage, their separation in 2015 came as a shock to their children and fans alike, although the family handled the transition with grace and maturity.

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A Long and Loving Marriage. Timothy and Darlene’s relationship began when they were just teenagers. They famously ran away to get married, a romantic start to a four-decade partnership that weathered military postings, career changes, and the intense demands of managing four children in show business. Their marriage was a cornerstone of the Mowry family for nearly half a century.

The Post-Divorce Dynamic. Despite the ending of their marriage, the relationship between Timothy and Darlene remains remarkably amicable. Tia Mowry has publicly stated that her parents still maintain a close and respectful relationship, which is a testament to their shared commitment to their family. This mature co-parenting dynamic has provided a strong example for their children, including Tia, who went through her own public divorce from Cory Hardrict in 2023.

Finding New Love. In a refreshing and modern update, Tamera Mowry revealed in 2020 that her father has a new girlfriend. More recently, in 2024, Tamera confirmed that she "absolutely loves" her dad's new partner, showing the family's acceptance and happiness for Timothy's new chapter. This transparency highlights the strong, supportive bonds that continue to define the Mowry family, even through major life changes. Timothy Mowry’s new partner is a welcome addition to the extended family circle.

Timothy’s Influence on His Children's Lives and Careers

Timothy Mowry’s role as a father extends far beyond providing financial and emotional support. He is a hands-on dad who shares unique bonds with each of his children, influencing their personal lives and professional paths in profound ways.

The Culinary Connection. One of the most heartwarming details about Timothy’s relationship with his daughters is his shared passion for cooking with Tia Mowry. Tia, who has become a successful cookbook author and host of her own cooking shows, has often spoken about bonding with her father over food. This shared hobby is a beautiful example of how Timothy nurtured his children's interests outside of their acting careers.

A Patriarch of Support. All four Mowry children—Tia, Tamera, Tahj, and Tavior—credit their parents' unity and sacrifice for their success. The foundation of discipline from their military background and the constant presence of both parents, even after the divorce, provided a stable environment. When Tia faced her own divorce, Tamera publicly affirmed that the "Mowrys have her back," a clear reflection of the strong family values instilled by both Timothy and Darlene.

A Legacy of Blended Heritage. Timothy Mowry’s English and Irish descent, combined with Darlene Mowry’s Afro-Bahamian heritage, created a rich cultural background for the Mowry children. This blended heritage is a source of pride for the family and is often discussed as a key element of their identity and broad appeal to audiences.

The Power of the Mowry Name. While Tia and Tamera are the most famous, Timothy is also the proud father of Tahj Mowry, an accomplished actor known for Smart Guy, and Tavior Mowry, a talented musician and former football player. Timothy Mowry’s legacy is not just the success of two twins, but the achievements of four unique and driven individuals who all benefited from his guidance and commitment.