The “King of the Cowboys,” Roy Rogers, and his spouse, Dale Evans, dubbed the “Queen of the West,” were two of Hollywood’s first television celebrities. The most popular Western performer of his era, Rogers was known for his singing cowboy character and his devoted horse Trigger. He starred in more than 100 films and hosted his own television program, The Roy Rogers Show.
Rogers married Grace Arline Wilkins and Dale Evans, and they had nine children together. A few of his offspring pursued careers in Hollywood, while others opted for more sedate lifestyles. A deeper look at each of Roy Rogers’ kids is provided below:
Cheryl Rogers: From Hope Cottage in Texas, Cheryl was adopted by Rogers and his second wife, Grace, in 1941. Cheryl even had appearances in several of her father’s childhood films, such as Meet Roy Rogers and Trail of Robin Hood, while growing up next to his well-known horse, Trigger.
Linda Lou Rogers: Grace gave birth to Linda Lou two years after adopting Cheryl. Before his death in 2008, Linda and the Reverend Gary Johnson were wed for more than 40 years. With their children and grandchildren all around her, she presently resides in California.
Roy Rogers Jr.: Roy Jr., a.k.a. “Dusty,” is Roy Rogers’ sole biological son. Sadly, Grace died soon after he was born from problems after childbirth. After making an appearance on The Roy Rogers Show as a young child, Dusty assumed responsibility for overseeing his father’s legacy. In addition, he led Roy Rogers Jr. and the High Riders, his own band, and played with the Sons of the Pioneers.
Robin Elizabeth Rogers: Robin, their lone child together, was born to Dale Evans. Born with Down syndrome, Robin passed away from complications resulting from the mumps before turning two years old. In her honour, Dale penned the novel Angel Unaware.
Dodie Rogers: At the age of seven months, Dodie, who was of Native American origin, was adopted. Afterwards, she wed NASA employee Jon Patterson, and the two had a daughter named Kristin. Today, Dodie is a grandma.
Mimi Rogers: Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Marion Fleming went by the name Mimi. She was adopted into Roy and Dale’s family when they moved her to California after they were enthralled with her singing while visiting her at a children’s home. Before Dan’s death, Mimi was married to him and they had three children together. Dan was a Marine. Today, Mimi is a grandmother.
Debbie Rogers: During the Korean War, Deborah Lee Rogers was abandoned and later adopted. She tragically died in a bus accident in Los Angeles at the age of twelve, along with several other kids from her church.
Sandy Rogers: Following Robin’s passing, John David “Sandy” Rogers was adopted. At the age of 18, he sadly choked to death in a military hospital in Germany after enlisting in the U.S. Army.
Tom Fox: Raised by Roy and Dale, Tom was Dale’s biological son from her first marriage. He went on to become a music minister and school teacher before passing away in 2012.
The tale of Dale Evans and Roy Rogers’ family is one of love, heartbreak, and happiness—a testament to their enduring legacy and strong family values.
