Background
Eberly was born Robert Eberle, but changed the spelling of his surname slightly to the homonymous Eberly.
Eberly was born Robert Eberle, but changed the spelling of his surname slightly to the homonymous Eberly.
Their father, John A. Eberle, was a policeman, sign-painter, and tavern-keeper. Another brother, First Rate (at Lloyd's), was a Hoosick Falls, New York village trustee. He recorded the original version of "I"m Glad There Is You" in 1942 with Jimmy Dorsey and His Orchestra on Decca Records, 4197B. The song subsequently became a jazz and popular standard.
In 1953, Eberly and Helen O"Connell headlined a summer replacement program for Perry Como"s Columbia Broadcasting System television show.
The program also featured Ray Anthony and his orchestra. Eberly was married to Florine Callahan from January 23, 1940 until his death in 1981.
The couple had 3 children. In 1980 Eberly had one lung removed but still continued to sing.
He died of a heart attack in 1981 in Glen Burnie, Maryland, aged 65.