William Marshall “WM” Rodgers Jr., 92, of New Hope, passed away Sunday, May 2, 2021, surrounded by his family.
Survived by his son William Boyd Rodgers and wife Debbie Nash Rodgers; daughter Frita Rogers Fears and husband Patrick Fears; his grandchildren Brandy Rodgers Booth, Tyler Anderson Keel, Michela Keel and Austin Fears; great grandchildren, Mikel Booth and Braden Booth. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Pauline Baugh Rodgers, his mother Gracie Saint Rodgers, father William Rodgers Sr. and sisters Annie Hayes and Leona Bolton.
WM co owned and operated New Hope Cleaners from 1973 to 2000 where he worked along side his wife and son. This business served all North Alabama and was a well know business around New Hope. WM operated all the machinery to process the dry cleaning, assisted customers and kept all the equipment running with the help of Boyd. This was the livelihood for the Rodgers family until 2000 when Pauline became too ill to work and WM took to nursing her needs which required the business to close.
After retiring WM enjoyed gardening, attending church, listening to blue grass music (way to loud) and attempting to play his many musical instruments.
He was a great husband but most of all he was the model father to his children. He was the example every father should follow. He was honest, humble and hardworking. This continued to exist even as a grandfather. His grandchildren were his pride and joy. He loved spending time with them especially when they were small but as they grew, he continued supporting them by watching them play softball and baseball as well as attend pageants all the while cheering them on. Later in life he was just happy to see them grown up as respectful and productive adults.
Pallbearers will be GB Baugh, Donald Baugh, Leamon Oneal Martin, Mikel Booth, Braden Booth, and Randy Lawler.
Visitation will be Thursday 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at New Hope Funeral Home. Graveside service will follow at Panquin Cemetery, Thursday at 3:00 PM with Bro. David Harwell officiating.
Interment will be in the Panquin Cemetery.
The family asks in lieu of flowers donations be made to Panquin Cemetery Fund, c/o Chris Clark 1599 Cottonville Road Grant AL 35747
