The New York Yankees mourn the profound loss of the beloved partners of their iconic 1950s duo.
This sad moment marks the passing of two remarkable women who stood by their husbands’ sides during an era that defined the legacy of the Yankees.
Whitey Ford played his entire 16-year Major League Baseball (MLB) career with the New York Yankees. He was a 10-time All-Star and six-time World Series champion.
On the other hand, Elston Howard spent most of his career with the New York Yankees, playing with the team from 1955 to 1967.
A 12-time All-Star, he became World Series champion six times, four times as a player and two times as a coach for the Yankees.
Arlene Howard & Joan Ford Obituary: Remembering Yankee Legends Wife
The New York Yankees, via their official account on X (formerly known as Twitter), announced the passing of two legendary players’ wives.
The team’s statement expressed their deep sorrow:
“The Yankees mourn the loss of the wives of two Yankees legends, Joan Ford, wife of Whitey Ford, and Arlene Howard, the wife of Elston Howard. Both women were guests of honor at Yankees Old-Timers’ Days and carried on the legacies of their husbands. The Yankees offer our heartfelt condolences to the Ford and Howard families.”
When the esteemed New York Yankees player, Elston Howard, passed away on December 14, 1980, his wife, Arlene, shared with The New York Times,
“Death no longer has any fear for me, believing that I could be with my husband again afterward.”
Arlene spent considerable time grieving the loss of her beloved husband, who had significantly impacted the baseball scene in the Bronx.
While Elston Howard’s life was tragically cut short at 51 due to a heart ailment, Arlene continued for another 43 years, preserving his memory.
Whitey Ford Wife, Joan Ford
Joan Ford, the wife of the Hall of Fame pitcher Whitey Ford, also leaves behind a legacy.
Though details about her life are less publicized, her obituary sheds light on a remarkable journey. The couple celebrated 69 years of marriage, surrounded by a loving family.
Tragically, Joan Ford, at the age of 92, departed on December 18, having shared a lifetime of memories with Whitey until his passing on October 8, 2020.
Born and raised in Astoria, Joan met her soulmate, Edward “Whitey” Ford, during her teenage years.
They married in 1951 and enjoyed nearly seven decades together. Throughout this time, Joan adeptly navigated raising their three children, all while steadfastly supporting Whitey’s celebrated baseball career.
Edward “Whitey” Ford remains an iconic figure in Bronx baseball history, while Elston Howard carved his niche, notably succeeding legends like Yogi Berra.
