Roy Rogers, famously known as the “King of the Cowboys,” and his wife Dale Evans, the “Queen of the West,” were among Hollywood’s earliest television stars.
Rogers, renowned as the singing cowboy who rode his trusty palomino horse Trigger, became the most popular Western star of his time. He appeared in over 100 films and had his own television series, The Roy Rogers Show.
Together, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans had nine children through their marriages to each other and Rogers’ first wife, Grace Arline Wilkins. While some of their children pursued careers in Hollywood, others chose to lead more private lives. Here’s a closer look at each of Roy Rogers’ children:
Cheryl Rogers: Cheryl was adopted in 1941 from Hope Cottage in Texas by Roy and his second wife, Grace. Growing up with her father’s beloved horse, Trigger, she appeared in some of his films as a child, including Meet Roy Rogers and Trail of Robin Hood.
Linda Lou Rogers: Born two years after the adoption of Cheryl, Linda was the biological daughter of Roy and Grace. She married Gary Johnson, a minister, and they remained together for over 40 years until his death in 2008. Linda now resides in California, surrounded by her children and grandchildren.
Roy Rogers Jr.: Also known as “Dusty,” Roy Jr. was the only biological son of Roy Rogers and Grace. Tragically, Grace passed away due to complications from childbirth shortly after his birth. Dusty appeared on The Roy Rogers Show as a child and later managed his father’s career. He also performed with the Sons of the Pioneers and led his own band, Roy Rogers Jr. and the High Riders.
Robin Elizabeth Rogers: Robin, the only child born to Roy and Dale, was born with Down syndrome. She tragically passed away before her second birthday due to complications from the mumps. Dale Evans wrote the book Angel Unaware in her memory.
Dodie Rogers: Dodie, of Native American descent, was adopted by Roy and Dale when she was seven months old. She later married Jon Patterson, a NASA employee, and they had a daughter named Kristin. Dodie is now a grandmother.
Mimi Rogers: Marion Fleming, known as Mimi, was born in Edinburgh, Scotland. Roy and Dale met her at a children’s home and were so impressed by her singing talent that they brought her to California, where she became a part of their family. Mimi married Dan, a Marine Corps member, and they had three children before his passing. Mimi is now a grandmother.
Debbie Rogers: Deborah Lee Rogers was adopted after becoming an orphan during the Korean War. Sadly, she died at age 12 in a bus accident in Los Angeles while attending a church outing.
Sandy Rogers: John David “Sandy” Rogers was adopted after the death of Robin. He joined the U.S. Army but tragically passed away at age 18 due to choking in a military hospital in Germany.
Tom Fox: Tom was Dale’s biological son from her first marriage, whom Roy and Dale raised together. He became a school teacher and music minister, passing away in 2012.
The story of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans’ family is a testament to the values of love, resilience, and devotion, showcasing a legacy filled with both joy and heartbreak.