The New York Yankees, synonymous with baseball legends, recently experienced a profound loss. Whitey Ford and Elston Howard’s legendary 1950s duo Joan Ford and Arlene Howard passed away, marking an end of an era for these women who played an integral part of shaping this celebrated team during one of its greatest periods. We honor their lives here.
Who Were Joan Ford and Arlene Howard?
Joan Ford and Arlene Howard were remarkable women whose lives were deeply interwoven with baseball history – specifically that of the New York Yankees. Joan, wife of Hall-of-Famer Whitey Ford, was known for her unwavering support of Whitey’s career during his seven-decade marriage – an impressive sign of their unbreakable bond and longstanding partnership.
Arlene Howard was equally influential during Elston Howard’s four decades with the Yankees as an African American player. Following Elston’s passing in 1980, Arlene took up his legacy by continuing to champion it for over four decades following his passing away. Her resilience and strength became an example to other women working within baseball today.
What Happened to Joan Ford and Arlene Howard?
Joan Ford and Arlene Howard’s lives were inextricably intertwined with that of Whitey Ford and Arlene Howard of the New York Yankees, from Joan’s journey with Whitey as his partner through raising a family while remaining a key supporter throughout his pitching career in Astoria until Whitey passed away in 1992. Joan was always present when Whitey needed someone he could count on: from early years in Astoria until his passing away in 1995.
Arlene Howard’s life took an abrupt turn after the unexpected passing of her husband Elston Howard. Devoted to honoring his memory and celebrating his contributions as one of the key factors in the Yankees’ success and breaking down barriers within sports, she made public appearances and conducted personal endeavors commemorating him and his achievements.
How Did Joan Ford and Arlene Howard Die?
Joan Ford passed away at age 92 on December 18th, just over two years after Whitey. Joan’s life was marked by love, resilience and the joy of long journey with Whitey; leaving behind an inspiring legacy of dedication and strength similar to what Whitey displayed throughout his career.
Arlene Howard passed away after dedicating 43 years to remembering and upholding Elston Howard. Her passing marked an end of an era; but thanks to Arlene’s efforts, his name will live on in baseball history for generations to come.
Conclusion
The New York Yankees community mourns Joan Ford and Arlene Howard deeply. Not only were they dedicated wives of legendary players like Derek Jeter and A-Rod; but their contributions helped shape one of baseball’s storied teams and were an integral part of its narrative. Joan and Arlene lived lives reflective of the times in which they lived — full of challenges, triumphs and an undying devotion to baseball and each other despite setbacks along the way. As we commemorate and remember these incredible women from baseball’s golden era together with them.
