As the nation mourns longtime “Jeopardy” host Alex Trebek, a local woman is recalling her time with the legendary figure. Trebek died from pancreatic cancer on Sunday.

Sharon Stern Gerstman met Trebek while competing on the quiz show in 2016.

Gerstman remembers the host as a humble man who preferred keeping the spotlight on his guests rather than on himself. She says that, during her visit, Trebek took time to speak with her about knitting, because his mother enjoyed the same hobby.

“He never wanted to be the star; he wanted the show to be about the game and the contestants, and I think that’s why he was so loved. I think that came through,” she said.

Trebek, 80, hosted “Jeopardy” for 37 seasons and more than 8,000 episodes.

Gerstman hopes “Jeopardy” can find a new host who will bring the same kind of spirit Trebek did to millions of viewers across the country.

Trebek's final episode will air Christmas Day.