Regis Philbin has finally been laid to rest.
The TV icon, who passed away on July 24 at the age of 88, was buried on Wednesday following a private sendoff at Cedar Grove Cemetery on the campus of Notre Dame University in South Bend, Indiana.
The Philbin family said in a statement to People on Friday:
“Regis was laid to rest at his beloved Notre Dame, following a private ceremony on Wednesday. Again, our family would like to thank everyone for the incredible love and support you’ve given us and for the hilarious tributes and touching memories you’ve shared. If you’d like to honor Regis, we again kindly ask that you make a donation either to www.FoodBankNYC.org or to the Center for the Homeless in South Bend (www.cfh.net).”
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The prestigious Ivy League university’s burial grounds seemed like the perfect final resting place for Philbin. He graduated from the school in 1953 with a sociology degree and remained involved with the institution throughout his storied television hosting career. In addition to being an avid Notre Dame sports fan, he donated $2.75 million to the university in 2001 to create the Philbin Studio Theater, a performance art venue on campus. That generous and long-lasting contribution on his part will surely feel more impactful now in the wake of his death.
It’s also worth noting that Regis and his wife Joy Philbin‘s two daughters, Joanna and Jennifer Joy, also are also part of the school’s alumnae.
Notre Dame President Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., offered his condolences to the Philbin family and spoke about the longtime TV host’s remarkable talent and generous spirit in a statement earlier this week:
“Regis regaled millions on air through the years, oftentimes sharing a passionate love for his alma mater with viewers. He will be remembered at Notre Dame for his unfailing support for the University and its mission, including the Philbin Studio Theater in our performing arts center. He likewise was generous with his time and talent in support of South Bend’s Center for the Homeless and other worthy causes. Our prayers are with his wife, Joy, and their daughters and Notre Dame alumnae Joanna and J.J.”
Days after his death, it was reported that the former Live! host died from a myocardial infarction due to coronary artery disease. In simpler terms, he ultimately suffered a heart attack. His wife Joy shared a beautiful sentiment about her husband that same day, which reads:
“He let everyone into his life. He turned every little daily annoyance and happiness into a story, and he shared all those little stories with people in a joyful and conversational way. It made his audience feel like they were right alongside him — because they were.”
We’re sending our deepest condolences to all of Regis’ loved ones, friends, and family as they continue to grieve this loss.
R.I.P., Regis.
[Image via Derrick Salters/WENN]
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