Joe Negri, a distinguished jazz guitarist and beloved figure on the children’s television program “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” died on May 30 in Scott Township, Pennsylvania. He was 99 years old. His family confirmed his death, which occurred at a senior living facility near Pittsburgh.

Born Joseph Harold Negri on June 10, 1926, in Pittsburgh, he was the son of Italian immigrants Michael, a bricklayer, and Rose Negri. Raised in the working-class Mount Washington neighborhood, Negri was immersed in music from a young age. He began playing the ukulele at age three and was performing on a local radio show by age five. By age eight, he had taken up the guitar, studying jazz solos at a prominent Pittsburgh music store.

Negri’s professional career began in 1942 when he played with a local orchestra. Soon after, he toured with jazz bandleader Shep Fields until he was drafted into the U.S. Army during World War II. While stationed in Europe, he continued playing music in clubs and eventually joined a special services unit that entertained troops. After the war, he returned to Pittsburgh to study music at Carnegie Institute of Technology, now Carnegie Mellon University.

Although Negri was encouraged by fellow musicians to pursue opportunities in New York, including touring with stars like Tony Bennett, he chose to remain in Pittsburgh with his family. Describing the challenges of city life and childcare, he said the environment did not suit him, prompting his return to his hometown.

In Pittsburgh, Negri formed his own band and worked as a music director at the local television station WTAE, where he collaborated with Fred Rogers on a children’s show. When Rogers launched “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” in 1966 for the public station WQED, he invited Negri to join. Initially cast as Handyman Negri, an affable character involved in lighthearted tasks around the fictional Neighborhood of Make-Believe, Negri appeared in over 300 episodes. His presence extended beyond acting; he also ran Negri’s Music Shop on the show, demonstrating instruments and performing alongside musical guests such as Wynton Marsalis and Yo-Yo Ma.

Colleagues praised Negri for his genuine warmth and musical skill. David Newell, who played Mr. McFeely on the program, noted that Negri’s on-screen persona reflected his real-life character—“incredibly gentle” and approachable. Michael Feinstein, a singer and pianist who recorded with Negri on his 2010 album “Fly Me to the Moon,” described him as one of the most accomplished guitarists he had ever worked with, lauding his dexterity and ability to play complex tunes instantly.

In addition to his television work, Negri was an educator who taught jazz guitar at the University of Pittsburgh, Duquesne University, and Carnegie Mellon. His impact on students was significant, with many expressing excitement over the opportunity to study under him.

Negri married Joan Serafini in 1954. She and their three daughters—Lisa Negri, Laurie Bentz, and Gia Leeven—survive him, along with three granddaughters.

Throughout his life and career, Negri remained closely connected to Pittsburgh, valuing the diversity of opportunities the city provided. Fred Rogers, known for his gentle encouragement and deep appreciation for music, regarded Negri as a natural fit for the show, noting not only his talent but also his warmth and neighborly spirit—qualities that endeared him to audiences for generations.