Finding the Helpers:
A LEGACY OF KINDNESS
JOANNE ROGERS SARA “JOANNE” BYRD ROGERS was a talented concert duo-pianist. She was married for more than 50 years to Fred Rogers, the longtime TV host of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. The show’s puppet, Queen Sara Saturday was named after her. While Fred was alive, she was only peripherally involved in the neighborhood, but had her own causes, mostly involving music. After Fred died in 2003, she became the primary spokesperson for Fred’s legacy continuing his message of kindness. Joanne loved the recent renewed interest in Fred’s work, participated in the PBS 50th tribute, was in the documentary film “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” And she was thrilled with her cameo appearance in “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood,” To celebrate Joanne, it took a year to convince her to have a 90th Birthday party – the event was finally marked on her 91st! Joanne was special and will be missed by many. She was a hoot, funny and entertaining, she always had a story to tell. To mimic the sing-songy way she said good bye or good night, “whoo hoo” Joanne!
JEAN ROBINSON Jean Robinson could be seen at the Post Office parklet frequently. With the help of Seeders and Weeders Garden Club, she purchased all the bulbs, perennials and annuals for the Post Office Parklet and then lovingly planted, weeded and tended the garden, literally on her hands and knees for as long as was needed during Pittsburgh’s growing season. The abundance of daffodils she planted there are a gorgeous sight in early spring. Jean will be missed mostly for her delightful self. She was upbeat and cheery as she walked our streets, stopping to talk to those she knew – which was a very long list in Squirrel Hill. Jean made many contributions to Pittsburgh, serving on boards of organizations that make Pittsburgh unique. Not one for accolades, Jean was honored to be named a Distinguished Daughter of Pennsylvania and a recipient of the Jefferson Award for Community Service. SHUC’s memory of Jean will be the beauty and joy she added to our vibrant Squirrel Hill neighborhood. CONTINUED on page 22
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