William Brackenridge Rogers

William Brackenridge “Bill” Rogers, age 86, passed away on March 13, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 8, 1939 in Macon County, Bill was the only son among four sisters born to John and Helen Rogers, a role he carried with pride and affection throughout his life. He graduated from Brevard High School in 1958 and faithfully served his country in the United States Navy for two years, an experience that shaped his strong sense of duty, discipline, and love of country.

Following his military service, Bill built a long and dedicated career at Ecusta, where he worked for 40 years. He was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and the respect he earned from coworkers and friends alike. He found great joy in the outdoors, loving to hunt and fish, and cherished the peace of the woods and water while sharing those moments with family and friends. He was also a member of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, with Patriot ancestor Hugh Rogers.

Above all, Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son-in-law, and family man. He shared 61 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Velma. Together they built a home filled with faith and steady guidance. He was a proud father to his two sons, Brack and Mark, and a steady example of strength, humility, and unwavering love. He deeply loved his two granddaughters, Ella and Hannah, who brought him great joy, and he was so proud of the young women they became.

His faith was the foundation of his life. He loved his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and faithfully served in his church for six decades. Whether through quiet acts of service, leadership as a deacon, or simply showing up whenever needed, he lived his faith daily and left a lasting impact on his church family and community. His life was a testament to commitment—to God, to his country, to his work, and most of all to those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Helen Rogers, his beloved wife, Velma, and one sister, Ann Rogers Owen. He is survived by his sons, Brack Rogers and wife Donna and their daughter Hannah, and Mark Rogers and wife Tana and their daughter Ella; his sisters Frances Rogers Jones, Ruby Rogers Sprouse, and Pat Rogers Hooper and husband Grady; and many extended family members, nieces, nephews, and friends who were blessed by his life. Being the only boy with four wonderful sisters brought him a lifetime of being “big brother,” and he loved every minute of it.