Winford J. Rogers, 86, prominent business and civic leader, accepted God’s call to go home while at Golden Living Center in Amory on May 8, 2013. Mr. Rogers was lovingly known as “Mr. Winford” by his many friends and loved ones. Winford was born September 14, 1926, in the Ozark community of Itawamba County to E. J. (Bud) and Mary Rogers. As a self-educated professional, Rogers served his country as a heavy machine gunner in the U.S. Army from December 7, 1942, until his honorable discharge on November 24, 1946. His tour of service was with “H” Company, 63rd Infantry Regiment, 6th Division, and he was stationed in Korea, the Philippine Islands, and Luzon. He attained the rank of Staff Sergeant and was officially recognized by the United States President Harry S. Truman for his actions during military service. After returning to civilian life, he worked at various jobs in the garment industry until he and his business partner, Bobby Farris, co-founded F & R Furniture and Supplies where they manufactured and supplied materials to the furniture and bedding industry. During his business venture, he was recognized by Governor Cliff Finch and the Small Business Administration as “The Small Business Person of the Year” Award. After retiring from his manufacturing profession, Mr. Rogers proudly served his beloved town of Mantachie as alderman, a position he used to help influence growth and achievement for the entire community. He also served a lengthy tenure on the Board of Directors of BancorpSouth at Mantachie. Mr. Rogers was a life-long member of Ozark Baptist Church, where he was active in the personal and financial support of his church, and provided special care to fellow church members.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Services will be at 11:00 a. m. Friday, May 10, at the Ozark Baptist Church with Bro. Dempsey Rowland and Bro. Walt Barnes officiating. Burial will be in Rogers family plot in the Ozark Cemetery. McNeece – Morris Funeral Home of Mantachie is in charge of the arrangements.
Pallbearers will be Donnie Turner, Kirby Turner, Tilden Guin, and Bud Taylor.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Jerry Wilburn, Sonny Pearce, and Cooper Guin.
Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at McNeece – Morris Funeral Home in Mantachie. The body will lie in state one hour prior to the service Friday at Ozark Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Ozark Baptist Church.
Online condolences may be shared and expressed at www.mcneecemorrisfuneralhome.com.
