Joan Steinbrenner, the beloved wife of late New York Yankees owner George until his death in 2010, died Friday at her home in Tampa, Fla., according to the team.
The 83-year-old first lady of the Bronx Bombers passed away while surrounded by family members. She and Steinbrenner were married on May 12, 1956, spending the next 54 years together,
“Joan was a compassionate and caring matriarch whose profound love for her family and those in the community always inspired us,” read a statement from the Steinbrenner family.
“Her elegance and grace touched everyone around her, and we know her spirit will live on through her legacy of good works. We are grateful to have had her in our lives, and she will be deeply missed.”
She is survived by her four kids, Hank, Jennifer, Jessica and Hal, along with 14 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. His sons Hal and Hank took on major roles with the Yankees after their father’s death.
A private family funeral was planned.
Joan was born in Mount Vernon, Ohio, and graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in dental hygiene. She became a prominent patron of many philanthropic groups and community projects in her home state – including the Cleveland Orchestra and the Lake Erie Nature and Science Center.
The family asked for memorial donations to the St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Foundation in Tampa, Fla., or a charity of one’s choosing.
