While in college, he played for the Duke University basketball team and served as the teams captain in 1959. The devastating news shocked fans. After working with children for a long time, Jerry decided to switch his field as he entered into a business venture. In 1974, they both exchanged marital vows, and their marriage took place in a church and was attended by close friends and family. Robertson unexpectedly passed away on Saturday, Aug. 21at the age of 77, according to her professional Facebook page. Your information will not be shared with or sold to 3rd parties. Elon News Network regrets this error. Born in 1933, Jeanne attended Wellesley College and earned a bachelor's degree . 5.0 out of 5 stars. Jeannes witty depiction of everyday situations never failed to have audiences of all ages rolling with laughter. [27] She said her favorite television series was The Andy Griffith Show. | What a wonderful family u have.so normal! Posted on Last updated: February 21, 2023. She died at her home in Burlington, North Carolina on August 21, 2021, at age 77. Jerry Robertson, a generous and dedicated parent and friend of Elon University, died June 7 at the age of 83. Wiki, Biography, Net Worth & Facts, Monti Roy Wiki Biography, Gender, Age, Parents, Boyfriend, Net, Who is Matheus Branquinho? Jeanne is preceded in death by her parents Jim and Cora Swanner, sister Andrea, and her beloved Jerry, affectionately known by millions of people around the world as "Left Brain". Jeanne Robertson, who parlayed her appearance in the Miss America pageant into a career as a speaker and humorist, died unexpectedly Saturday. If Elon was playing and Jerry was in town, he was there. Thank you for all the great work you did. In fact, the former Miss North Carolina even spoke about him during her gigs. [15] She was also a Golden Gavel award-winning Toastmaster. [4] Her 1995 book, Mayberry Humor Across the USA, furthers her connection to Griffith's show. Although the reason for Robertson's death has not been released yet, her publicist announced that she was suffering from a serious illness that wasn't related to covid-19. She married Jerry Robertson. She died at her home in Burlington, North Carolina on August 21, 2021, at age 77. He and Jeanne would frequently host dinners at their home to welcome students to Elon, make them feel at home and build a culture of community support. Jeanne Robertson was a physical education teacher in North Carolina for eight years, and Jerry Robertson was a school principal. Jeanne Robertson is an American humorist, motivational speaker, former Miss North Carolina, and physical education teacher. [3] In 1974, she married Jerry Robertson,[20] a graduate of Duke University where, at 6ft 6in (1.98m) tall[20] and on an athletic scholarship,[21] he played on its basketball team, serving as its captain in 1959. The humorist weaves the longer stories with a point. And he stood on his head," she says. Moving towards Jeanne Robertson's family background, she was born in a large family. Robertson said $5 from each sale would go to the Columbus Regional Health Foundation. Jeanne was married to Jerry Ray Robertson, a graduate of Duke University where, at 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) tall and on an athletic scholarship, he played on its basketball team, eventually as its captain. You will especially laugh at Left Brains mention of the two implants Jeanne was getting that day! Robertson was a member of the Methodist church. He himself chose to become a teacher in order to pass the knowledge that he collected in his life. Jeanne Flinn Swanner was born at the Naval Hospital Boston in Chelsea, Massachusetts and raised in Graham, North Carolina,[4][2] one of three daughters. I m so, so, so sorry about LB. Jerry Robertson was Jeanne's second husband as she was previously married to a man called Walter Bowline III. Robertson's husband, Jerry Ray Robertson, died two months ago, WRAL reported. ELON Jeanne Robertson, who parlayed her appearance in the Miss America pageant into a career as a speaker and humorist, died unexpectedly Saturday. "50 years later, Miss Congeniality more popular than ever before", "Jeanne Robertson, 77, Down-Home Humorist With a Pageant Past, Dies", "NEW! We are sure that Jeanne is now telling stories in heaven, all the angels are laughing, and Left Brain is in the back with a big smile. ELON, N.C. (AP) Jeanne Robertson, who parlayed her appearance in the Miss America pageant into a career as a speaker and humorist, died unexpectedly Saturday. He was suffering from a longtime illness. He came from a time where there was no such thing as social media platforms. hey jeanne i love my job and you make it more fun by just listening to you and knowing that your humor comes from everyday experiences, https://gazette.com/arts-entertainment/humorist-jeanne-robertson-set-to-perform, https://www.axs.com/interview-jeanne-robertson-on-embracing. Verified purchase. The family will receive friends at 1 p.m., preceding the memorial service. Jerry Robertsons love for education drove him to become a teacher before becoming a principal at Burlington City Schools. Details about their relationship and love life before marriage have not been made available to the public. Designed & Developed by Precision Creations, Joy Behar Comes Unglued While Talking About Her Husband Keep Your Mouth Shut!, Blake Shelton Opens Up About True Reason Hes Leaving The Voice, Roman Reigns On CM Punk, Updates On AEW Talents, UFC 285: Jon Jones, Ciryl Gane Discuss Championship Fight. Jeanne Robertson is an American humorist, motivational speaker, a former Miss North Carolina, and a former physical education teacher who was born in Graham, North Carolina as Jeanne Swanner Robertson. Jeanne Robertson shared a son with her first husband called Walter Bailey Beaver Bowline. In 2000, the NCAA Southeastern Conference named Robertson Auburn Universitys Woman Entrepreneur of the Year. All Rights Reserved. The Dr. Alan and Norma White Field at the track complex, and the Alan J. Elon University womens tennis sweeps Saturday doubleheader, Elon University mens tennis sweeps Hampton University, Elon University mens basketball loses in first round of CAA tournament to William & Mary, ends 2023 campaign, Women empower Elon University softball team, Fellows Weekend brings almost 2,000 people to Elon University, Elon University mens basketball prepares for Colonial Athletic Association tournament, Former President of the American Civil Liberties Union Nadine Strossen discusses free speech at Elon University. Robertsons popularity soared, however, in 2009 after a handful of humorous clips from her talks became viral videos. She was a frequent guest at the Grand Ole Opry, her YouTube views recently rounded the 120 million mark, and during the pandemic of 2020 Jeanne kicked off a popular Saturday afternoon show live streamed from her Facebook page. They tied the knot in 1965 but got divorced in the early 1970s. After working in the education sector for a while, he decided to venture into business. In 1980, Jeanne was designated a Certified Speaking Professional by the National Speakers Association, an American-based association that supports professional speakers. There are reports that he was born in 1938. Perfect for a Night of Laughter. Jeanne Robertson passed away at the age of 77 in her home in Burlington, North . I can relate to your stories. This passion drove him to earn a bachelors, masters, and doctorate degree and to also become an educator as well. Robertson also found time to publish her fourth book the same year: Dont Bungee Jump Naked and Other Important Stuff. Jeanne Robertson is a national treasure who had a knack for finding the humor in unexpected and everyday situations, while regaling live and online audiences with hilarious stories about a colorful parade of characters. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. According to her team, she had a "complex illness," and a cause of death was not revealed. Jeanne Swanner Robertson passed away peacefully in her home in Burlington, North Carolina after a short illness. Robertson Court, the main basketball court in Schar Center, also recognizes their contributions to fund the spaces construction. 2023 Elon University | All Rights Reserved. There she joined Alpha Gamma Delta and played on its basketball team, graduating in 1967. Philanthropy. After some years of partnering with Elon University, he focused more on Elon athletics. He was suffering from a longtime illness. We do not have details of what the relationship between Jeanne Robertsons son and Jerry Robertson looks like, but considering that Beaver has taken Jerrys last name, they most likely have a good relationship with each other. The couple received Elon Medallions in 2017 in recognition of their distinguished service to the university, with a special focus on Elon athletics, over many years. 300K views 1 year ago This clip is from Jeanne's new video ROCKING HUMOR - available now! Who is Fae Johnstone? Hershey's Boycott scandal explained, {{#media.media_details}} {{#media.focal_point}}. Waterskiing makes good photo but LB's never waterskied - can't find his swimsuit, etc. Robertson was born Jeanne Swanner Robertson on September 21, 1943, in the United States. However, she and her ex-partner shared a son named Walter Bailey Beaver Bowline III. Im telling my life.. Copyright 2022 Jeanne Robertson - All Rights Reserved. Jeanne is preceded in death by her parents Jim and Cora Swanner, sister. 6/9/21 8:18pm. [16], Robertson taught physical education for eight years in North Carolina. Husband of Jeanne Robertson (American motivational speaker and YouTuber). Robertson grew up in Graham, North Carolina, one of three daughters. The news of his death was confirmed in June 2021, years after it was revealed that Jerry had been suffering from a long illness. Robertson had reportedly been struggling "with a severe illness" in the days leading up to her death. Elon Athletics has lost one of its longest and most loyal supporters in Jerry Robertson, said Elon Director of Athletics Dave Blank. The UC San Francisco community is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jeanne Robertson, a Distinguished Director on the UCSF Board of Overseers and passionate advocate for education, psychiatric care, and the arts nationwide. Have something to tell us about this article? [28][29], Robertson's performances have been recorded on both DVD and CD, with nine titles currently available:[30], Many short segments of her speeches (individual stories, outtakes, etc) are also available on Jeanne's YouTube channel, as well as recordings of her 20202021 livestream series "Live from the Back Porch".[31]. Her anecdotes have been broadcast regularly on satellite radio comedy channels such as XM Radios Laugh USA, Sirius Radios Blue Collar Comedy, and its Family Comedy Channel and Laugh Break. Jeanne Robertson is funny while resisting the popular go-to of foul language or sexual innuendo. Posted in: While she held the crown of Miss North Carolina, Robertson spoke 500 times in one year. However, it was not COVID-19 related. Later, Robertson obtained an athletic scholarship to study at Duke University. It was also publicized and cleared that she did not succumb to Covid-19. On August 21, news of Jeanne Robertsons death was confirmed. Contact us: Newsunzip@gmail.com, Jerry Robertson (Left Brain) Biography Wiki, Age, Wife, Net worth, Family, Death & More, Jerry Robertson Biography, Wiki (Birthday / Early Life), About Jeanne Robertsons Husband, Jerry Robertson Wiki, Jerry Robertson Family (Father, Mother & Siblings), Jerry Robertsons Marriage, Spouse & Relationships, Jerry Robertson Net Worth / Income / Professions, 7 Facts You Need to Know About Jerry Robertson, Whitney Alford Wiki Biography, Height, Age, Net Worth, Husband & News, Rajakili Movie (2023): Cast | Release Date | Songs |, Josh Popper Wiki Biography, Birthday, Girlfriend, Height, Net Worth,, Who is Akash Acharya? Promise You, though, I will laugh again and keep laughing. Jeanne Robertson's husband Left Brain got himself into a lot of trouble by telling a bunch of people about her beauty and health regime. They had a shared interest in athletics, as just like Jerry, Jeanne Robertson was also a basketball player. 'The Great Marmot Standoff'. He worked most of his life in improving the lives of many children and even got involved with many organization which helps to promote athletes. Some of her most popular anecdotes include "Don't Go to Vegas Without A Baptist," "Don't Bungee Jump Naked", and "Don't Send a Man to the Grocery Store.". Jeanne started her YouTube channel on May 8, 2008. August 23, 2021 at 5:08 am EDT. As per Times Free Press, Jeanne referred to her husband as the left brain because of his logical, linear way of thinking. On June 07, 2021, he passed away due to a natural cause at the age of 83. Due to the untimely passing of Jeanne Robertson, the show on Friday, October 22, 2021 at the Pantages Theatre in Minneapolis, MN has been cancelled. Throughout his life, Jerry Robertsons prime focus was to better Elon athletics. In 2003, The Miss North Carolina Organization named Robertson as its Woman of Achievement. He completed his primary and secondary studies at a public school in his hometown. Robertson was the husband of Elon trustee Jeanne Robertson. Jeanne told on many occasions that Jerry is her left brain. She describes her material as family humor. Husband Jerry, aka "Left Brain" b/c he is, turned 80 y'day. On August 21, the news of Jeannes death was confirmed on her official Facebook account. Jeanne Robertson was an American humorist, motivational speaker, former Miss North Carolina, and physical education teacher. As a result, she started collecting beaver figurines. Her motto was: keep laughing. She believed that laughter might not cure all of lifes problems, but it makes most of them a little easier to bear. When Jeanne came home to Graham, North Carolina from her sophomore year at Auburn University the spring of 1963 to enter the town beauty pageant, she had no idea that win of Miss Graham and Miss Congeniality would lead to being crowned Miss North Carolina later that summer, or that her pageant engagements would develop into a career as a nationally known speaker and humorist. Who is Karina Seabrook and What is Her Net Worth? Thankfully for him, Jeanne has a sense of humor! In 2010 they made a lead gift to fund renovations of Alumni Gymnasium where Elons basketball and volleyball teams competed. Jeanne Robertsons spouse worked as a basketball player, educator, principal, and businessman. People have shown immense support and well wishes . Jeff is a standup comedian and host who has been a member of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour with Larry the Cable Guy, Bill Engvall, and Ron White. Both were way above average height and would look taller when taking a picture with almost anyone. In August of 2021, Jeanne Robertson unexpectedly passed away at her home in Burlington, NC. Robertson stood at a height of 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 m) tall. Hershey's Boycott scandal explained. This means the five days that she spends at home every month are spent on what she calls maintenance.. What was Jeanne Robertson illness? Who is Caziah Franklin? Thankfully she will live forever here on earth as long as it endures. Jeanne Robertson married Jerry Robertson, a graduate of Duke University who received his masters degree and doctorate at the University of North Carolina. For decades, her speeches were mostly limited to meetings and conventions, however, with the dawn of the digital age, the world became exposed to Jeannes authentic humor when her YouTube videos suddenly went viral. Robertson credits her reign as the catalyst for her career. In 2014 the university named the Jerry and Jeanne Robertson Track and Field Complex in their honor following their gift to fund improvements of the facility. Walter is now known as Beaver Robertson. I had developed a reputation for being funny. Robertson never really talked about his parents on the internet. Later, Robertson obtained an athletic scholarship to study at Duke University. Correction: Jerry Robertson was a principal in the Alamance County School System. Her popularity soared, however, in 2009 after a handful of humorous clips from her talks became popular videos. We cover breaking news related to Entertainment, Politics, Sports, Movies, Television, Current Affairs, and More. White Bell Tower to commemorate the Whites legacies. Robertson unexpectedly passed away on Saturday, Aug. 21 at the age of 77, according to her professional Facebook page. "The Nashville People here. Jeanne Robertson Left Brain vs Intruder - HILARIOUS!!! Wiki, Biography, Age, Parents, Girlfriend, Ethnicity,, Who is Paul Berry? Jeanne didn't get the crown, but she did win Miss Congeniality. [14][17], Although she began her public speaking career with her pageant title, Robertson achieved much more national attention as a humorist and speaker. Jeanne Robertson, who turned her title of Miss Congeniality at the 1963 Miss America pageant into a career as a public . Jerry and Jeanne got introduced to each other through a mutual friend. Death. My heart is heavy right now. The Robertsons began their association with Elon athletics in the mid-1980s, faithfully attending games, contributing to the program and supporting multiple scholarships and helping grow campus facilities. The Robertsons also made gifts to honor former Elon athletics director Alan White and his wife, Norma. She gave me strength to hold on and gave my laugh back. After graduating from Duke University, he furthered his education at the University of North Carolina, where he earned his masters and doctorate degrees. Jerry Robertson, a generous and dedicated parent and friend of Elon University, died June 7 at the age of 83. Robertson has a son from her first marriage, Bailey "Beaver" Bowline, who is 6 ft 8 in (2.03 m) tall. Before she died, all of her future engagements had been canceled because her health was not good. The couple received Elon Medallions in 2017 in recognition of their distinguished service to the university, with a special focus on Elon athletics, over many years. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. In fact, she was born to her parents Jim and Cora Swanner. On August 12, 2021, it was announced that some of Robertson's future engagements had been canceled due to a "serious but non-COVID-related" illness. They also provided transformational gifts to the university that truly made a difference in the daily lives of Elon students.. Robertson was born on September 21, 1943. He was suffering from a longtime illness. On August 21st, 2021, the world got a little less funny. Their grandson, Ryder Bowline, graduated in 2017, and their grandson, Gray Bowline, is a current Elon student. And following the endowment of an athletic scholarship in honor of their longtime friends, the Robertsons named both the Dr. Alan and Norma White Field and the Alan J. Aside from the love and commitment they both shared, they also shared a couple of other things in common. Home Jeanne Robertson Net Worth | Husband. He attended a local primary and secondary school in his hometown of Durham, North Carolina. Robertson earned most of her wealth from her comedy shows. In 1963, Jeanne Robertson's bubbly personality and great sense of humor earned her the title of Miss Congeniality when she competed in the Miss America pageant. If you are a Jeanne Robertson fan, click here to watch her explain why she and Left Brain use a broom instead of a gun! Jeanne said that much like the movie Sleepless in Seattle, Left Brain could be called Clueless in North Carolina.. Early life [ edit] Jeanne Robertson passed away at the age of 77 in her home in Burlington, North Carolina. Not much is known about him. Following her Miss North Carolina reign, Jeanne used the scholarship funds to fund her college education at Auburn University (public research and Land-grant university in Auburn). How did Jeanne Robertson die? Earlier, she was married to her ex-husband whose details were never discussed by Jeanne on the internet. In 1963, at age 19, Jeanne was named Miss North Carolina. In June, Jerry 'Left Brain' Robertson passed away after battling a long-term illness. In addition to her son, she is survived by two grandsons and her sister, Katherine Swanner. Jerry Robertson passed away on June 7, 2021. Details of death:. Later, he took on the role of a principal. I just love speaking., We didnt have the internet, cassettes hadnt been invented but word of mouth began to spread.. Basketball Player, Educator, Principal, and Businessman. The post failed to shed more details on what the illness was. This club helps to supports the athletic program. you & I are the same age. Jeanne used to call her spouse her Left Brain or LB in many of her on-stage gigs. Jeanne Swanner Robertson passed away peacefully in her home in Burlington, North Carolina after a short illness. They tied the knot in 1965 but got divorced in the early 1970s. white dog with black eye patch names; southside legend strain certified For most of his life, he worked as an educator and principal of a school at Elon University. The couple received Elon Medallions in 2017 in recognition of their distinguished service to the university, with a special focus on Elon athletics, over many years. I'm on You Tube watching her and sniffing.She brought so much fun into my life. Amid this, fans have been thinking about her husband, Jerry Roberston, who she referred to as the left rain.. She spoke at the White House on April 29, 2008, for National Volunteer Week to honor the 1,300 volunteers who donate time to work at the White House. Buzzsouthafrica.com copyright 2021. She was 77. We are certain that Jeanne is in heaven, telling stories, the angels are laughing and Left Brain is in the back with a big smile. There, she played on its basketball team and joined Alpha Gamma Delta. Jerry Robertson was Jeannes second husband as she was previously married to a man called Walter Bowline III. Robertson is also an award-winning Toastmaster. She has been a person that has lifted many spirits out of the dark pits. He even discussed that her weight can balloon up, so she goes to yogurt class.. President Emeritus Leo Lambert awarded both Jerry and Jeanne with Elon Universitys highest honor, the Elon Medallion, in 2017 for their continued support of the university. [2][14] Robertson graduated in 1967,[15] and in 1990 she was inducted as an alumni member of the Omicron Delta Kappa Circle at Auburn University. On August 1st, 1998, Robertson published her third book, entitled Dont Let the Funny Stuff Get Away. The book is based on more than three decades of experience and it provides a practical and informative system for gathering life-experience stories which lead to remarkable presentations. When you get to a certain age, your maintenance program often involves spending a lot of time at medical appointments. Her son is now known as Beaver Robertson. Im telling my life!, I have a cast of characters and one of my biggest challenges is to make sure on every tape I have included a drop-dead funny story about all of my cast of characters., I want them to laugh just as long, just as hard, and enjoy me just as much., Things happen on a daily basis that are really funny, but people often let the funny stuff get away, either because they dont notice it as funny, or they dont make it a priority to look for it., When I started speaking for money in the 60s, I was talking about being a 62 former Miss America contestant who wanted to shoot hoop shots in the talent competition., Theres a big difference between comedy and humor.. We do not have details about his parents and siblings but what we know is that he was most likely born and raised in a Christian home and upheld Christianity even as an adult. Comedienne Jeanne Robertson dies. Home Wiki Jerry Robertson (Left Brain) Biography Wiki, Age, Wife, Net worth, Family, Death & More. Madalyn Howard The exact reason for his death has not been revealed to the public. Jeanne Robertson's first marriage was to a man named Jerry. His real full birth name was Jerry Ray Robertson. Her anecdotes have been broadcast regularly on satellite radio comedy channels, including: Jeanne Robertson reached her 62 stature at age thirteen. He had huge respect for well-read people. Part of Alexander Moore Partners Ltd. Romeo's secret talent is taking the ordinary and making it extraordinary content. At work, he is thinking about how best to provide the most unique, original content After completing his graduation, Jerry took admission at the University of North Carolina from where he has his masters and doctorate degrees. Once she started telling a story, her personality attracted attention from fans of all backgrounds. Left Brain really dug himself into a hole because Norma Rose spilled the beans. Read Also Whitney Alford Wiki Biography, Height, Age, Net Worth, Husband & News. She said: What you want is material everybody can identify with. In 2017, the couple was honored with Elon Medallions which is the Universitys highest honor. Robertson was married to Jerry Robertson, a graduate of Duke University. Over the years, Jerry and Jeanne shifted their focus to Elon athletics. [2], In 1963, at age 19, she was named Miss North Carolina[6][7] and went on to be named Miss Congeniality in that year's Miss America competition. His wife, Jeanne Roberson, was an athlete, YouTube personality, motivational speaker, humorist, and 1963 Miss North Carolina. GRAHAM, N.C. North Carolina humorist Jeanne Robertson died Saturday morning, according to her professional Facebook page. He received his master's degree and doctorate at the University of North Carolina. As per the posts, she was challenged with a severe illness since August 13. She is survived by her only son Beaver, and his two children Ryder and Gray. On Saturday, her death was confirmed. As per Elon Education, Jerry received his masters degree and doctorate at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She was 77. We will miss Jerry very much and are forever grateful to both Jerry and Jeanne for all they have done to support Elon athletics.. In addition, Foxworthy had his own sitcom in the 1990s simply named The Jeff Foxworthy Show.. Her death was announced by Elon University, where she served as a trustee. [25] Jeanne and Jerry Robertson were both members of Elon University's Phoenix Club, which supports the athletic program,[15] and the university's track and field complex is named after the couple.[25][26]. She was 77. Jeanne tells a story that mentions her adult son, who's nicknamed Beaver. We dont go after anybody. While Jerry and Jeanne were married, they made love look beautiful to the people who knew them. On 21st August 2021, at the age of 77, she peacefully passed away in her home situated in Burlington, North Carolina. Jeanne Robertson was a humorist who was known for her wholesome stories of family life, featured on YouTube and Sirius XM. Jeanne Robertson Family Background. He touched the lives of our coaches and student-athletes in very meaningful ways, including his consistent presence at so many games. Perhaps it was an indication of a future speaking career that would soar to great heights.. Wiki, Biography, Age, Family & Facts About Janice Longs Husband, Who is Gallienne Nabila? Robertson passed on at her home in Burlington, North Carolina on August 21, 2021, at age 77. However, we have gathered a couple of pieces of information about him to help you know who Jerry Robertson was. [10] Robertson credited her reign as the catalyst for her career. Who is Malachi Barton and How Old is He Today. However, it was not COVID-19 related. The Elon University mens tennis team picked up a 7-0 win against Hampton University on Saturday, sweeping all of its doubles and singles sets to improve to 6-5 on the season. She was named Miss North Carolina in 1963, at age 19, and went on to be named Miss Congeniality in that years Miss America competition. Hegel. Towering over the other contestants at 6'2", the former Miss North Carolina went on to become a sought-after public speaker and comedian. Sorrowfully, The Late Jeanne Robertson Shares A Hilarious Story About Her Teenaged Grandson. Death. From his school days, he remained very active in various kinds of sports. Jerry received his master's degree and doctorate at the University of North Carolina and was an educator, principal and later worked in business. In 2017, they received the Universitys highest honor, Elon Medallions. At 6'2 the height she's been since age 13 and with an impressive drawl, she's striking yet warm and always wearing a smile. The Elon University womens tennis team improved to 5-0 this season in home matches by sweeping a Saturday doubleheader against Hampton and Methodist. July 4, 2016 The Grand 1894 Opera House presents An Evening with Jeanne Robertson, Friday and Saturday, Aug. 5 and 6, at 8 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at The Grand's Box Office, 2020 Postoffice. Later, Robertson obtained an athletic scholarship to study at Duke University. Raised in the tiny town of Graham, North Carolina, Jeanne Robertson was always encouraged by her family to find the humor in everyday life.