Audrey Geisel

Audrey Geisel

Audrey Geisel (August 14, 1921 – December 19, 2018) was an American philanthropist and the widow of children's author Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel). She played a significant role in managing her late husband's literary estate, ensuring that the legacy of Dr. Seuss's work continued to flourish after his death in 1991. Audrey Geisel was instrumental in the posthumous publication of several Dr. Seuss books and was a dedicated protector of the Dr. Seuss brand.

Early Life

Audrey Geisel was born Audrey Stone on August 14, 1921. Details about her early life, including her education and early career, are not widely documented. She met Theodor Geisel while working in the advertising department of a magazine, and they married on June 21, 1968, following the death of Theodor's first wife, Helen Palmer Geisel.

Career and Philanthropy

Following the death of Theodor Seuss Geisel in 1991, Audrey Geisel took over the management of his literary estate. She was known for her dedication to preserving the integrity and accessibility of Dr. Seuss's works. Under her guidance, the Dr. Seuss brand expanded significantly, including the adaptation of his books into films, stage productions, and merchandise.

Audrey Geisel also founded Dr. Seuss Enterprises, an organization dedicated to protecting the Dr. Seuss legacy. She was involved in various philanthropic efforts, including significant donations to the University of California, San Diego, leading to the naming of the Geisel Library in honor of her and her husband.

Posthumous Publications

Audrey Geisel was responsible for the posthumous publication of several Dr. Seuss books discovered in her husband's archives. These include Hooray for Diffendoofer Day! (1998), Daisy-Head Mayzie (1995), and What Pet Should I Get? (2015), among others. Her efforts ensured that Dr. Seuss's body of work continued to grow even after his death.

Personal Life

Audrey Geisel's marriage to Theodor Seuss Geisel was her second. She had two daughters from her first marriage. Audrey was known for her vibrant personality and her deep commitment to her husband's legacy. She resided in the Geisel home in La Jolla, California, until her death on December 19, 2018.

Legacy

Audrey Geisel's legacy is closely tied to that of her husband. Through her management of his estate and her philanthropic efforts, she played a crucial role in ensuring that the messages of hope, imagination, and education in Dr. Seuss's books continue to reach new generations of readers. Her work has left an indelible mark on children's literature and philanthropy.