Rildia Bee Cliburn was born on 14 October 1896 in McGregor, Texas, USA. She was married to Harvey Lavan Cliburn. She died on 3 August 1994 in Fort Worth, Texas, USA.
She gave piano lessons, and discovered her son's ability when at the age of 3 he went to the piano after one of her students left and played by ear the piece that had just been taught.
Mrs. Cliburn served as her son's adviser, manager and inspiration throughout his career.