Willie Donester Rodgers departed this life unexpectedly at his home on June 1, 2019. He was born on September 25, 1938 in North Carolina to the late Johnny & Bertha Rodgers. “Sonnyboy,” as he is affectionately known, worked tirelessly as a blue collar worker at Sealtest Diary and Meyers & Tabakin, and as an independent long distance tractor trailer truck driver for several companies, including Marine Stevedore, Hemmingway, and BTT at which time he became self-employed. He left the workforce in July 2015. Willie had a great love and passion for music and he formed a band early in life with his brother Frank Rodgers and other relatives and friends called “Willie Rodgers and the Diamonds”; they travel throughout the local area, including North Carolina. He loved motorcycle riding and joined the Blackhawk Motorcycle Club. More than anything, Willie loved his family and he proved it. If you want to know what a family man looks like, you hosted the annual Rodgers Family Reunion and Christmas Party for decades at his own expense.
Willie is predeceased by his twin, Lillian Monester Rodgers, his first wife Zenobia Haskins-Rodgers, and his late wife, Vernice Dale Rodgers, his daughter, Thelma L. Harris, brother Johnny “Hercules” Rodgers, and sisters Olla Mae Lee, Frances Joyner, and Sallie M. Stancel. He leaves to cherish his memory: his children, Kim R. Love (Grady), Ricky D. Rodgers, Corey D. Rodgers (Latishia); one brother, Frank H. Rodgers; grandchildren Ryan Rodgers, Ashley Harris, Anthony Rodgers, Jayla Rodgers, Elliot Harris, Jr., Akira Simmons, Anaya Simmons, and Corey D. Rodgers, Jr., Jazmin Grievous-Drewrey; and eight great-great grandchildren; the many to whom he was a father-figure; and nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends too numerous to count.
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Shanita Lowery says
June 5, 2019 at 3:03 pmCorey, Kim, Ricky and Family; please know that my heart, thoughts and prayers go out to you during this difficult time. The lost of a parent is hard, but to lose both parents in such a short time is unimaginable. Please know that I am here for you and I am sending continued prayers for strength and comfort. Let the memories and love sustaining you all. With love and sympathies. Shanita Lowery and family.
Sister Vanessa Fowler (ENOCH BAPTIST CHURCH) says
June 7, 2019 at 9:55 amSister Kim Love and Family, Please remember that our memories are forever and a place where we can always visit when our loved ones are no longer here with us. The Lord cares and will comfort your hearts during this time and forever.
Sharyn Taylor says
June 7, 2019 at 9:48 pmThe Taylor, Hollman, Vinson and Coins family Send our condolences to the family of Sonny Boy. He has been a part of our lives since before most of us were born. He was well loved, much respected and will be truly miss…Rest in Peace Sonny Boy.
Donna Cuffee says
June 8, 2019 at 8:20 amMy condolences to you (Ricky) and your family. May God continue to lead, guide and comfort you all in Jesus sweet, holy and precious name. Amen
Michael Shorts says
June 8, 2019 at 12:06 pmCorey, Ricky and Kim, on behalf of Ms. Tina sons our sincere condolence to you and your remaining family. Your Dad (Sonny Boy) was something. We first met many years ago when Sonny Boy and Mr. Mickey were in that band together and your dad was the lead singer. Oh my goodness! Joyce and I will continue to pray for you guys and even though our parents are gone, we should keep an eye out for each other too. Stay strong family! .