Charles Robert Rodgers’ Legacy

On October 31, 2025, Charles entered his eternal home and resting place in heaven. He lived a blessed life and will be remembered fondly by many. 

On November 9, 1941, on a farm in Linden, Texas, John and Ollie Rodgers welcomed their baby boy – Charles Robert Rodgers. For Charles, life in Linden included worshipping at Bethel Church of Christ, attending elementary school, and working on the family farm. The family relocated to Dallas, Texas in 1953.

After relocating to Dallas, Charles attended N.W. Harllee School and James Madison High School. In his last semester of high school, Charles enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving for over 27 years – active duty (3 years) and reserves (24 years). In 1972, Charles became an employee of Rock-Tenn Paper Company. He worked there for 36 years as an exceptional millwright until his retirement in 2008. His contributions to Dallas’ Rock-Tenn site included negotiating union contracts; initiating the site’s first safety program; and engaging in holiday community service.

Upon moving to Dallas, John and Ollie Rodgers moved the family’s church membership to the 9th Street Church of Christ. Now known as Cedar Crest Church of Christ, Charles remained a member there until his death. Over the years, Charles enjoyed ushering and working in the kitchen among other tasks at Cedar Crest.

Having met years prior, Charles Rodgers married Dianne Scott on August 22, 1975. To this union, three daughters were born – Connie, Dionne, and Bianca. Charles also brought two bonus sons to this union – Steven Sheppard and Randy Hamilton. Over their 48 years of marriage, Charles and Dianne enjoyed traveling and hosting family and friends. Additionally, Charles enjoyed deep sea fishing, hunting, planning family reunions, being the family’s pitmaster, and being Dianne’s tea cake supplier.

Charles is preceded in death by his parents – John and Ollie Rodgers; his wife – Dianne Scott-Rodgers; and his son – Randy C. Hamilton.

Charles leaves to cherish his memory son: Steven Sheppard (Dallas, Texas); daughters: Connie Rodgers (Dallas, Texas), Dionne Rodgers (Rio Rancho, New Mexico), and Bianca Rodgers (Cedar Hill, Texas); brother: Johnie V. Rodgers, Sr. and wife Joanne (Allen, Texas); many grandchildren including Vianca Rodgers, Kristal Crockett-Rodgers; special kin: Verlene Houston (bonus sister); Sandra Clerk (bonus daughter); nieces Alicia Craddock and Shauyn Harris; relatives: Margie Taylor (aunt); cousins Carolyn Taylor , Gene Mack, and Johnnie Jackson; nieces and nephew: Janyne Pierre, Johnie V. Rodgers, Jr. and Juanita Joseph (Shon) and a multitude of family and friends.