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

Joe Negri, the beloved guitarist known as Handyman Negri on the classic children's television series "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," died Saturday of natural causes at age 99, his daughter Lisa Negri confirmed. He lived in Scott, Pennsylvania, and spent nearly his entire life performing in Pittsburgh.

Born June 10, 1926, on Mount Washington, Negri began his musical career at age 4, performing on KDKA-AM's "Uncle Henry's Radio Rascals." By age 5, he caught the attention of local dancers Fred and Gene Kelly. He went on to perform with big bands, serve in the U.S.

Army during World War II, and later become a fixture on Pittsburgh television. In the mid-1960s, Fred Rogers cast him as Handyman Negri on "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," a role he played for 35 years.

Despite his character's name, Negri famously admitted he couldn't hammer a nail straight. His jazz guitar skills, however, were legendary.

He performed with Wynton Marsalis, Tony Bennett, and Yo-Yo Ma on the show. Negri also taught jazz guitar at Duquesne University, the University of Pittsburgh, and Carnegie Mellon University for more than 45 years.

He received the Presidential Award for Extraordinary Service from Duquesne in 2022. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Joni, three daughters, and three granddaughters.

Funeral services were private. The family suggests donations to St.

Jude Children's Research Hospital.