TAMPA, Fla. — June Hurley Young, host of the Tampa Bay Area edition of the hit children's television show "Romper Room," has passed away at the age of 87.

Young hosted the show from 1965 to 1980.

Her son, Sean Hurley, has fond memories of being back stage as a child.

"I got to run the cameras and work with the guys behind the scenes," Hurley said. "It was a fabulous childhood growing up in this area and having a mother like her."

Young also led the charge to save the now Don Cesar hotel, when it was slated to be torn down in the early 1970s.  Hurley said the iconic hotel will now serve as a reminder of all Young's accomplishments.

"Those times when you have the opportunity to enjoy a sunset, enjoy the view coming over the Bayway Bridge and see the Don Cesar, those are the times it makes a big difference," Hurley said. "It will be beautiful to think of."