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Joe Negri, Handyman Negri on 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood,' Dies at 99

01 June 2026 07:30

Joe Negri, the guitarist known as Handyman Negri on 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood,' has died at age 99. He was a jazz legend and longtime teacher in Pittsburgh.

- Negri began performing at age 4 on KDKA-AM radio. - He played Handyman Negri for 35 years on the beloved children's show.

- He taught jazz guitar at Duquesne University for over 45 years. - He received the Presidential Award for Extraordinary Service in 2022.

Negri's legacy as a musician and mentor will be remembered by generations.

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