Roy Rogers, the iconic “King of the Cowboys,” and his wife Dale Evans, known as the “Queen of the West,” were trailblazers in early Hollywood television. Rogers, celebrated as the singing cowboy with his loyal palomino horse, Trigger, starred in over 100 films and hosted his own show, The Roy Rogers Show.
Together with his two marriages, Roy had nine children. Some followed in his footsteps in Hollywood, while others led more private lives. Here’s a closer look at each of Roy Rogers’ children:
Cheryl Rogers: Adopted by Roy and his second wife, Grace Arline Wilkins, from Hope Cottage in Texas in 1941. Cheryl appeared in some of Roy’s films as a child, including Meet Roy Rogers and Trail of Robin Hood, and grew up alongside Trigger.
Linda Lou Rogers: The biological daughter of Roy and Grace, born two years after Cheryl. Linda married Gary Johnson, a minister, and spent over 40 years with him until his passing in 2008. She lives in California with their children and grandchildren.
Roy Rogers Jr. (Dusty): The only biological child of Roy Rogers, born after Grace’s passing due to childbirth complications.
Known as Dusty, he appeared on The Roy Rogers Show, managed his father’s career, and performed with the Sons of the Pioneers and his own band, Roy Rogers Jr. and the High Riders.
Dodie Rogers: Adopted at seven months old and of Native American descent. Dodie married Jon Patterson, a NASA employee, and they had a daughter named Kristin. She is now a grandmother.
Mimi Rogers: Born Marion Fleming in Edinburgh, Scotland, Mimi was adopted by Roy and Dale after they were impressed by her singing at a children’s home. She married Dan, a Marine Corps member, had three children with him before his passing, and is now a grandmother.
Debbie Rogers: Adopted after becoming an orphan during the Korean War, Debbie tragically died at age 12 in a bus accident in Los Angeles.
Sandy Rogers: Adopted after Robin’s death, Sandy joined the U.S. Army but died tragically at age 18 from choking in a military hospital in Germany.
Tom Fox: Dale Evans’ biological son from her first marriage, raised by Roy and Dale. Tom became a school teacher and music minister, passing away in 2012.
The story of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans’ family is a tapestry of joy, sorrow, and enduring love, reflecting their deep family values and lasting legacy.
