CAMPANELLA'S WIDOW DEAD.

Byline: Tony Jackson Staff Writer

VERO BEACH, Fla. - Roxie Campanella, the widow of Dodgers Hall of Fame catcher Roy Campanella, died of cancer Sunday at her home in Woodland Hills. She was 77. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1993.

Roy had been confined to a wheelchair since losing the use of his extremities in a 1958 automobile accident, when he still was in the prime of his playing career.

``Roxie was a remarkable woman,'' Dodgers broadcaster Vin Scully said in a statement issued by the club.

``She had the unwavering strength to support her husband during his physical problems and then continued her battle for life even though she knew her time was limited. She was a true inspiration, just as Roy was. Everyone in the organization will miss her.''

Former Dodgers pitcher Don Newcombe had maintained a close relationship with the Campanellas.

``Roxie was a great lady and meant the world to Roy,'' Newcombe said. ``Roy always told me that Roxie was the reason that he was able to carry on. For that, she will always have a special place in my heart. My heart goes out to the whole family.''

The Dodgers retired Roy Campanella's uniform number (39) on June 4, 1972, the same day they retired those of Jackie Robinson (42) and Sandy Koufax (32). Funeral arrangements are pending. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Roy and Roxie Campanella Foundation, 7657 Winnetka Ave., Suite 534, Canoga Park, Calif., 91306.

Tony Jackson, [phone]

tony.jackson(at)dailynews.com