Joanne Rogers, “the loving partner” until the last TV icon Fred Rogers, died at age 92, according to a declaration released Thursday by Fred Rogers Productions. The couple had been married for more than 50 years before Fred, widely known as Mister Rogers, died in 2003 stomach cancer at 74 years old.
The producer praised Joanne’s contribution to supporting children, families and the arts.
“Joanne was a brilliant and talented musician, a wonderful defender of the arts and a dear friend to everyone in our organization,” said the statement. “We extend our sincere condolences to Joanne’s family and to the thousands of people who have had the privilege of meeting and loving her.”
The city of Pittsburgh called joanne one of her “favorite neighbors” on Twitter, and the city’s mayor told CBS Pittsburgh that with her “grace, humor and realistic attitude”, she “personified what we love in the city of Pittsburgh.” She also received the 2019 George Romero Legacy Award at Steeltown Entertainment’s 2019 Elly Awards, according to the season, and was recognized for helping filmmakers learn about her industry.
Joanne was a classically trained pianist and was known for her “wonderful sense of humor with a recognizable generous laugh”, according to a biography provided by Fred Rogers Productions. She had also participated in one of Fred Rogers’ first shows, “The Children’s Corner,” on PBS.
She also spoke in support of the 2019 film “A beautiful day in the neighborhood“and Tom Hanks, who played her husband, told CBS Pittsburgh.
“I loved it. I think Tom is a genius, almost. I want to give credit – Tom Hanks received a lot, a lot of good publicity and he deserves every part, ”she said at the time.
