Joan Steinbrenner passes away at age 83

Joan Z. Steinbrenner, vice chairperson for the Yankees, passed away Friday surrounded by her family at her home in Tampa. She was 83.

The wife of late Yankees owner George Steinbrenner from 1956 until his death in 2010, Joan Steinbrenner was recognized throughout her life for her philanthropic work. A native of Mount Vernon, Ohio, she was a graduate of Ohio State University.

"Joan was a compassionate and caring matriarch whose profound love for her family and those in the community always inspired us," said 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."

Mrs. Steinbrenner participated in many community projects and supported numerous philanthropic organizations over the years. In her native Ohio, she worked with the Cleveland Orchestra and was deeply involved with the Lake Erie Nature and Science Center, where she performed and taught puppetry to local children. Among her many community roles after relocating to Florida, she was named state chairperson for the Florida Special Olympics in 1981 and 1982, and for two years was on the board of directors of the National Society to Prevent Blindness. She was also a charter member of Town and Gown, which was established in 1977 in an effort to form a bond between community supporters in the downtown Tampa area and the University of South Florida.

Additionally, Mrs. Steinbrenner was a longtime board member for Children's Home, Inc., and was one of the original members of the H.B. Plant Museum Society. From 1991-2000, she served on the development council of the St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation board. She was also a member of the Junior League of Tampa and The Chiselers, and sat on the board of directors of the Florida Orchestra.

Mrs. Steinbrenner is survived by four children (Hank, Jennifer, Jessica and Hal), 14 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

A private family service will be held.