Joanna Sturm: Life, Family Legacy, and Roosevelt Heritage

The Roosevelt family has been one of the most influential and recognizable families in American history. Their legacy extends far beyond the presidency of Theodore Roosevelt, reaching into politics, culture, and philanthropy. Among the lesser-known but equally fascinating members of this lineage is Joanna Mercedes Alessandra Sturm, commonly referred to as Joanna Sturm. A great-granddaughter of President Theodore Roosevelt, Joanna’s life reflects both privilege and tragedy, along with the weight of carrying such a renowned surname.

This article explores in detail who Joanna Sturm is, her family background, her children, and her ties to one of America’s most iconic political dynasties. It also answers popular questions like Is Joanna Sturm still alive?, What is Joanna Sturm’s age and birthday?, and highlights her grandparents’ significant roles in shaping her life.

Who is Joanna Sturm?

Joanna Mercedes Alessandra Sturm was born on July 9, 1946, in New York City. She is the only child of Paulina Longworth Sturm and Alexander McCormick Sturm, placing her at the intersection of two historically significant families. Her maternal side connects directly to the Roosevelts and Longworths, while her paternal side ties into the Sturms, known for their cultural and business prominence.

Joanna grew up under difficult circumstances. Her father died when she was only five years old, and her mother passed away in 1957 when Joanna was just ten. After this tragic loss, her maternal grandmother, Alice Roosevelt Longworth, took custody of her. Alice, known as the witty and outspoken daughter of President Theodore Roosevelt, became not just Joanna’s guardian but also her most influential role model.

Throughout her life, Joanna has been described as a philanthropist, historian, and preserver of Roosevelt family heritage. She is sometimes referenced in historical circles as the Roosevelt descendant who carried forward the family legacy quietly, away from the more visible political stage.

Joanna Sturm’s Family

Joanna’s family history is as rich and complex as the Roosevelt legacy itself.

• Mother: Paulina Longworth Sturm (1925–1957)
  Paulina was the daughter of Alice Roosevelt Longworth, but questions around her paternity circulated for decades. Many historians believe that her biological father was Senator William Borah, not Nicholas Longworth III (Alice’s husband). Regardless, Paulina’s troubled life ended early, leaving Joanna orphaned.

• Father: Alexander McCormick Sturm (1923–1951)
  Alexander, known as “Sandy” Sturm, was a Yale-educated artist, philanthropist, and co-founder of Sturm, Ruger & Co., one of the most successful American firearms manufacturers. Sadly, he died young at age 28 from viral hepatitis.

• Grandmother: Alice Roosevelt Longworth (1884–1980)
  Alice, daughter of President Theodore Roosevelt, was a legendary figure in Washington society. She raised Joanna in her Dupont Circle mansion in Washington, D.C., and ensured she was surrounded by both the Roosevelt legacy and the sharp wit for which Alice was famous.

• Grandfather: Nicholas Longworth III (1869–1931)
  Though likely not Paulina’s biological father, Nicholas was officially Joanna’s maternal grandfather. He served as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and was a towering figure in American politics during his era.

• Great-grandfather: Theodore Roosevelt (1858–1919)
  The 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt was a reformer, adventurer, and Nobel Peace Prize winner. Joanna’s connection to him places her within one of the most celebrated family trees in U.S. history.

Thus, Joanna’s family tree represents political power, social influence, and intellectual prestige—but also personal struggles and tragedy.

Joanna Roosevelt Sturm – The Roosevelt Legacy

Sometimes referred to as Joanna Roosevelt Sturm, she embodies the continuation of the Roosevelt bloodline. While she never entered public office or politics herself, Joanna remained connected to Roosevelt heritage through cultural and historical preservation.

Her upbringing under Alice Roosevelt Longworth’s guidance ensured she was well aware of her place in history. Alice, known for her sharp tongue and fearless opinions, passed on her intellectual independence and pride in family tradition. Joanna became a custodian of Roosevelt memory, often appearing in records related to Roosevelt genealogy and family heritage.

Joanna Sturm’s Children

Joanna married Robert Hellman, and together they have at least one daughter named Alice Roosevelt Sturm, named after Joanna’s famous grandmother. This naming choice reflects Joanna’s desire to preserve Roosevelt traditions across generations.

While Joanna has not sought the spotlight, her descendants remain part of the Roosevelt family network, linking past presidential history with the present day.

Is Joanna Sturm Still Alive?

Yes, Joanna Sturm is still alive. Born in 1946, she would now be in her late seventies. There are no records or announcements of her passing, and she is still listed in genealogical and historical sources as a living descendant of Theodore Roosevelt.

Her continued presence is significant, as she belongs to the rare surviving generation directly raised by President Roosevelt’s immediate children.

Joanna Sturm’s Grandparents

Joanna’s grandparents are a major part of her story:

• Maternal grandparents: Alice Roosevelt Longworth and Nicholas Longworth III (with speculation around Senator William Borah as Paulina’s biological father).

• Paternal grandparents: Justin Sturm and Katherine “Kit” McCormick, from a wealthy Connecticut family with strong ties to business and art.

Her maternal grandmother, Alice Roosevelt Longworth, played the most pivotal role, effectively becoming Joanna’s parent after Paulina’s death.

Joanna Sturm’s Birthday and Age

• Date of Birth: July 9, 1946

• Age: As of 2025, Joanna Sturm is 79 years old.

Her birthday not only marks her personal milestones but also represents a continuation of the Roosevelt family legacy into the modern era.

Legacy and Historical Role

Unlike some Roosevelt descendants who pursued politics, Joanna chose a more private life. Yet her historical role is undeniable. She serves as a living bridge between President Theodore Roosevelt and contemporary America, a reminder that behind every iconic figure are generations of family carrying forward their memory.

Joanna Sturm’s life story is a mixture of privilege, tragedy, and resilience. Losing both parents by the age of ten could have been devastating, but her grandmother Alice provided the stability and guidance that helped her mature into a thoughtful preserver of her family’s legacy.

Her descendants ensure that the Roosevelt name continues, not just in history books but in living memory.

Conclusion

Joanna Sturm may not be a household name like Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt, or even Alice Roosevelt Longworth, but her life remains a key chapter in the Roosevelt dynasty. She embodies the private side of a public family, quietly ensuring the legacy of her parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents continues.

Her story reminds us that behind the grandeur of history are real lives touched by love, loss, and resilience. Joanna Sturm, born into one of America’s most famous families, continues to live with the weight and honor of that heritage.

As history moves forward, Joanna stands as a custodian of memory—a great-granddaughter of Theodore Roosevelt, the daughter of Paulina and Alexander, and the granddaughter of Alice Roosevelt Longworth.

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