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Rosalind Joel

1922 - 2014

BORN

1922

DIED

2014

Rosalind Joel Obituary

HICKSVILLE, N.Y. (AP) - The mother of singer-songwriter Billy Joel, who inspired him to write "Rosalinda's Eyes," has died in New York at the age of 92.

Rosalind Nyman Joel died Sunday on Long Island, said Claire Mercuri, a spokeswoman for the award-winning singer.

"Rosalinda's Eyes" from Joel's 1978 album "52nd Street" was a tribute to his mother, who raised him alone after divorcing his father, Howard Joel, in 1957.

The lyrics include the words: "I've got music in my hands; The work is hard to find; But that don't get me down; Rosalinda understands."

Rosalind Joel worked in a clerical capacity for various businesses near her home in Hicksville, Long Island, and supported a number of charities.

Born in Brooklyn to English emigrants, she met her husband in 1942 at a City College musical production and married him three years later. Their son, Billy, was born in 1949. The couple later adopted Judy, the daughter of Rosalind's late sister Muriel.

Billy Joel endowed the Rosalind Joel Scholarship for the Performing Arts at City College in 1986.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested that donations be made to The Little Shelter animal rescue and adoption center in Huntington, Long Island.


Copyright © 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Published by Lawrence Journal-World on Jul. 15, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Rosalind Joel

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81 Entries

Betty Hale

May 18, 2024

Roz was larger than life. She was a force of nature. She was so generous. Many times I babysat her cat while she was away. She took me on several trips including Old Westbury gardens and paddle boat cruises. She even offered to take me to France but I opted instead to stay with her cat and another friend went with her. She also took a whole bunch of us backstage to one of Billy's concerts at Madison Square Garden. She was an amazing woman and I will miss my friend

Roxana

April 7, 2022

Thinking positive thoughts about Roz, a woman I knew who had a huge heart, huge style, huge hopes for her precious, talented son.

kenneth passero

August 31, 2020

God Bless the woman that gave Billy his soul.May she rest in heaven.

Betty Hale

April 29, 2018

It was my privilege to know Roz for several years. We used to take the Sunday brunch paddleboat cruise every year as well as trips to Old Westbury. She even offered to take me to France but l opted to stay and care for her cat Peaches. Roz was larger than life. I loved her.

Etta Schaeffer

February 27, 2016

I had no idea. I now live far away from Huntington Bay. We were friends. I am so sorry I didn't know sooner
. Roz, rest in peace, your children are your legacy to the world.
Roz gave my son tickets to one of Billy's concert for his 25th birthday enabling him to impress his date. It was such a sweet thing to do.
I hope the family realizes that many people thought she was a very special person.
Roz, My friend you are most certainly missed.
Etta Schaeffer
Boca Raton, Florida

Kay Laboy

June 2, 2015

I worked with Roz at the NY State office in Hicksville. She brought me home for lunch often. She constantly told anyone and everyone : my son is going to be famous. She was one of the sweetest human beings I ever met. So sad that I never got to keep in touch. Billy, you had the best Mom in the world (next to my mom)!!!! My heart goes out to you.

Sandy St,John

August 9, 2014

Roz was my "Aunt Roz" for many years after she moved to California. We went to the Forum to see Billy several times and to countless dinners with her and Joe. We visited her in New York 3 0r 4 times after she moved back there full time. Once we were there for a week and she took us everywhere. Went into the City, to Billy's house and to, what seemed like, every good restaurant in the Huntington. My late husband Dick and I performed as "Dick and Dee Dee" and Roz came to see us when we did an "Oldies" show at Westbury Music Theatre in Long Island. I have a whole box of letters from her as we wrote to each other often. I will miss her. Sandy St.John

jill

August 5, 2014

So sorry to hear of your loss. "Rosalinda's Eyes" has always been one of my favorite songs. May she rest in peace. From one of your many forever fans.

Patty Schoen-Jones

August 4, 2014

Rest in Peace Mrs. Joel.

Patti Aebisher

August 2, 2014

Sorry to hear of the passing of a longtime customer.

Mrs. Joel was a "spunky senior" often spotted around town at Hecksher Park or needing help with an item from a top shelf at King Kullen. A lovely local lady who was one of Huntingtons more "colorful " residents. She will be missed. Patti Aebisher and the Fort Hill Nursery Family

July 27, 2014

Billy and Judy,
As your former baby sitter, I have fond memories of your mom and dad. I lived on Kingfisher Lane across from Grabowski.
I received a letter from Howard many years ago but lost touch with him. I spoke to Judith about ten years ago but lost her address in Coram during a move.
Please accept my deep condolences and love.
Barbara Compart noonan

Pete Nashtt

July 25, 2014

Mr. Joel and family - My sympathies however how lucky were you to have a mom until that ripe old age. I'm gathering you were probably a handful growing up but it appears that you were able to give back to her all that she has done for you. She must have been very proud.

July 22, 2014

Billy,
Even though I am from NY, I saw you at Wrigley with my daughter on Friday evening and your voice was perhaps the best it's been in a long time. I know how proud your mother would have been to be there and what an incredible legacy she left to this world. She was selfless and loving and from all that I read, an incredible mother. My deepest thoughts and condolences to you and your family. YOu are in my thoughts and prayers.
Shelli Rafkin

July 21, 2014

Billy Joel, I am a Fan of Yours, for A Long Time! I am Very Sorry to Hear, of your Mother's Passing. I Send My Condolences
to You, and Your Family. May God Bring You Solace at This Special Time...

July 21, 2014

My condolences to the "Rosalind Joel" Family.
Psalm 90:10 Said: The span of our life is 70 years, Or 80 if one is especially strong. But they are filled with trouble and sorrow; They quickly pass by, and away we fly. HY.Y

July 21, 2014

I am so sorry about your mother, Billy. I lost my mother over three years ago, I know how you feel. God bless you in the coming days

July 21, 2014

She must have been a truly marvelous mother. She gave birth to and raised a rare gem in the music world. My thoughts are with Billy Joel and his family. Your mother will be with you always, as mine has been with me.

lamar

July 19, 2014

My condolences goes out to the Joel family.May the God comfort help you in this very difficult time.May you reflect on the miracle that Jesus performed at John 11:40-44

Kevin Lipman

July 18, 2014

Alav Hashalom Rosalinda. Condolences Mr. Joel to your entire family.

Giovanni Leardi

July 18, 2014

I am very saddened to hear about the passing of Mrs. Joel.

Margaret Wall

July 18, 2014

So very sorry to read of Mrs. Joel's passing. She raised an amazing son who brought so much joy to so many people through his music. He is her legacy. Condolences to all her friends and family.

Herman Tibbs

July 18, 2014

Billy and Family,
I know first hand the hurt you are feeling as I lost my mother to cancer in 2009. Your mother suffers no more so take peace in knowing that. My condolences and prayers are with you all.

Nadine Young

July 17, 2014

Billy I'm so sorry for your loss. I lost my Mom last year she was. 80. I still her he voice and miss her do much. My heart breaks for you. Sending you love and a big hug !! Love Nadine

michelle plakas-kaiser

July 17, 2014

rip

July 17, 2014

July 17

The scripture says: the meek will possess the earth and find exquisite delight delighted. In the abundance of. Peace.
Psalms 37:11

Ricardo Benavides

July 17, 2014

Please accept our sincere condolences; you are in our thoughts and prayers.

With deepest sympathy,

The Benavides'
Biggest Billy Joel Fans from TX

Mike Jachimczyk

July 17, 2014

To the Joel Family, my sincere condolences.

Bankston

July 17, 2014

Dear Joel family we offer our condolences.We know what it feels like to lose a Mom.Draw close to God in prayer during this difficult time. He promises to reunite us with our loved ones on a Paradise earth . So all sickness and death will be no more.

July 16, 2014

What a beautiful photo! Alexa strikingly resembles your lovely mother.
May your cherished memories bring you comfort at this difficult time. With deepest sympathy from a Billy Joel fan. . . God bless!

SPANKY

July 16, 2014

A MOTHERS LOVE IS A MOTHERS LOVE, YOU WILL ALWAYS HAVE IT , GOD BLESS ALL THE FAMILY.

David Saks

July 16, 2014

I'm sorry, Billy. May God keep your beautiful mother in his hands, always.

Stephanie James

July 16, 2014

Dear Billy Joel and Family,
Please accept my condolences on the loss of Mrs Joel. RIP Mrs Joel

July 16, 2014

There is no greater loss then ones mother

T Thomas

July 16, 2014

Life is eternal, and love is immortal, and death is only the horizon, and the horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight . Rest well !

Maria Berg amine

July 16, 2014

Dear billy Joel
And family our deepest symphysis
On the loss of your mom
Please stay strong we love you
Maria and Kevin berg amine your fans

Terri Zezza

July 16, 2014

Mr. Joel I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your mom. My husband lost his mother in December of last year. You and your family are in our prayers. You mother looked like a kind and loving person. She is now one of the LORDS angels. You have our love and prayers.

Iris Thomas

July 16, 2014

May the God of all comfort grant your
family peace at this very sad time.

Michaels Garris

July 16, 2014

To the family my sincere condolences. I pray that everyone can draw strength from Isaiah 33 : 24 and know that God is there to help you through each day.

Joanne Kleiner

July 16, 2014

To Billy and Alexa, Judy and her family please accept my condolences. I have fond memories of Rosalind or "Mrs. Joel" as I knew her. Her love of the arts inspired Billy as he in turn inspired us in our musical life. We are so sorry for your loss. Jim is in Australia visiting his daughter Janet and grandson Tyler but he sends his condolences. God Bless you all and give you peace. Love, Jim and Joanne Kleiner formally from Meeting Lane.

C. Teeter

July 16, 2014

My sincerest condolences to the entire Joel family.

Mara

July 16, 2014

What a beautiful mother you have. Bless her memory.

mary curtis

July 16, 2014

Billy bless you & your family. Let us all know that your mom has gone home. We will all be together at the end. What a beautiful soul rosalind joel is

L. Walters

July 16, 2014

To the family, I would like to offer my sincere condolences to you all. Please know from [Psalms 90:10] that because of special mightiness from God, Rosalind lived a long life. Cherish the memories that you have of her close to your hearts, and let the comfort of God be with you all.

G J.

July 16, 2014

To the entire family of Rosalind Joel. Please accept my condolences. May Jehovah God give you all peace in this time of sorrow. Rom 15:33.

Laura Hoffman

July 16, 2014

So very sorry for your loss Alexa and Billy

Robin

July 16, 2014

My sincere condolences family

God promises a time when " He will swallow up death forever."

2Corinthians1:3 M,,

July 16, 2014

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Robin Regenburgh

July 16, 2014

God Bless! A life well lived and a son and lovely,just as talented, granddaughter to leave as part of a wonderful legacy. Rest in Peace beautiful lady!

Anna Manley

July 16, 2014

Rosalind was a customer in our store back in the 70's and 80's (in Southdown) and she was one of our favorites because of her unique personality and endearing wit....not because she was related to anyone famous. May God watch over her now and may she rest in peace.

Ps. 55:22

July 16, 2014

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

July 16, 2014

God bless you and your loved ones ~

July 16, 2014

My condolences to the Joel family, So sorry for your loss. It really touches the heart when we know of others grief. May time and prayer be healers.

Derek Walker

July 16, 2014

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

July 16, 2014

Thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family.
Sincerely,
Dottie Tomlinson Independence, MO

July 16, 2014

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Ronny Melton

July 16, 2014

sorry for your loss billy.

July 16, 2014

So sorry for your loss.

Tracy

July 16, 2014

Deepest Sympathy to Billy and Family:
Thank you for giving us such a wonder song writer but most of all such a wonderful man.
May the family find comfort in the passing days knowing you will be there to watch over them.

July 15, 2014

Sorry for your loss.No matter how long we have our Moms it's the most difficult loss I ever experienced.God Bless,Hang Tough. Debbie

July 15, 2014

So sorry for your loss. Your mom lived a life full of joy and music surrounded by the ones she loved the most. Cherish the memories! I continue to pray for you... Maria Frixione (Burlington, Ontario)

Richard Grohs

July 15, 2014

You Gave The World a gift and you are remembered for being a Wonderful Mother and Woman of the earth.Thank you and with all my heart I know you are within great hands.Love Richie Grohs

The Dennerlein Family

July 15, 2014

Our thoughts & prayers go out to you, Billy, & your family. May she rest in peace!

July 15, 2014

Billy So sorry for your loss. My mother died this year too she died in March . She was 91....didn't trealize when we saw you this spring in st Louie they were the same age. You spoke of her that evening so fondly... There nothin like mom! You 'll get thru it! Peace to you and your family. Mary Blaies and family.

Lori LaRussa

July 15, 2014

Billy love and prayers to you on the loss of your dear mom bu she will always be in your heart.

Susan

July 15, 2014

I wish you strength in this most difficult time. She will be with you forever in your music and in your heart.

Patti R

July 15, 2014

My thoughts and prayers go out to Rosalind's family & friends.

Mother-to-Mother

July 15, 2014

My deepest sympathy for your loss. There is no doubt that the bond between mother and son will endure throughout eternity. My heart is warmed by the appreciation well expressed for a mother's love and her many sacrifices. Cherish the promise of endless life free of everything that causes us sadness.

July 15, 2014

My sincere condolences to the entire family.
May her memory be a blessing.
Andrew Goodman
Dresher, Pennsylvania

July 15, 2014

Dear Joel Family-My prayers and thoughts are with you today. May you find the strength you need to get through this sad time. But rejoice in the many years she had on this earth. And how proud she was to have such a talented son. Always-Jodi

Jean

July 15, 2014

My sympathy and prayers to the family. May your faith and the good memories sustain you. God bless you all.

Ricky Lewis

July 15, 2014

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Scott Chamberland

July 15, 2014

Please accept my Deepest Sympathies

Mike Dugan

July 15, 2014

May you rest in peace!

You certainly raised a fine son.

Bob Karolewski

July 15, 2014

May you and your family find comfort with those around you. May her memory be not only in songs but forever in your heart.

Michael Collins

July 15, 2014

It is Rosalind's time to Rest in Peace after being the mom that everyone boy would love to have and every girl would love to be. God Bless your family and I hope they get the privacy that they deserve.

Bradley & Stacy McGurk

July 15, 2014

May you rest in peace..

Teresa Leary

July 15, 2014

Condolences to Mr. Joel and his family.

James Willner

July 15, 2014

May the eternal light shine upon her.....

Ani

July 15, 2014

What a blessing to so many. May you know the comfort that comes from the sharing of eternal love. Rest in peace thou good and faithful servant.

Showing 1 - 81 of 81 results

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