Read Eugene "Gene" Rogers's Obituary & Leave Condolences

In memory of

Eugene "Gene" Rogers

Seneca, South Carolina, USA

October 27, 1939 - February 15, 2021

Oct 27, 1939 - Feb 15, 2021

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On February 15th, 2021 Gene Rogers (Eugene) passed away in his home at the age of 81. Gene was a loving husband to his wife Rita, father, grandfather (Pop), and US Navy Veteran.

He was born in Queens, NY in 1939. He and Rita met in 1957, while Gene was serving in the Navy, and wed in 1960, which began 60 years of a happy marriage. In 1967, Rita and Gene moved their daughter and two sons out of the city to Nesconset, NY. After his time serving in the military, Gene got a job driving for Texaco Oil Company, where he became a member of the million-mile club and worked until he retired.

In 1995, Gene and Rita moved from New York down south to Seneca South Carolina where they built a house on Lake Hartwell. Their house became the gathering spot for the family and fostered a love of the lake among their children and grandchildren. It became a very special place to spend time together, and our family will forever cherish the countless summers and memories spent on the dock and “Pop’s Boat”.

Gene was an active member of the community on all fronts. He was involved in the Knights of Columbus as a Fourth Degree Knight, where he served as social chair, Grand Knight and Deputy Grand Knight (Fondly referred to by his family as the grand poo-pah) throughout his time involved in Council 6884. Additionally, Gene was honored as 2012 – 2013 Knight of the Year for his outstanding contributions to the council. He took great pride in helping organize Oktoberfest each year, as well as volunteering at the Special Olympics. He worked as a volunteer with Prisma Hospital in Seneca for nearly 26 years and was an active member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic church, where he frequently ushered.

Gene’s lengthy resume of volunteering and community involvement is just a small testament to his huge heart. He was willing to go above and beyond to help people and would do anything for anyone. So much so that he was named the Hometown Hero in The Journal newspaper, twice. A well-deserved nickname and legacy that will stick around forever.

Aside from a decorated register of community service, Gene leaves behind a loving wife and family. There will forever be a spot for him on the dock, as we wait for him to walk down with a Margarita in a Yeti tumbler and shout “Hello Folks!”. He was a straight shooter and great cook, who adored his family and had a soft spot for dogs. His colorful personality could light up any room and he had a way with words that would frequently have everyone in stitches. To say he was beloved is an understatement. He will be greatly missed by his community and family. We are comforted by the fact that he did not suffer. Gene is survived by his wife Rita, his children Mary Jackson (Matt Jackson), Gene Rogers (Tess Rogers), and Jimmy Rogers (Debbie Rogers), Grandchildren Matthew Jackson, Meghan Jackson Martin, Tyler Rogers, Melissa Jackson, Madison Rogers and Marissa Rogers.

Gene is being cremated per his wishes. There will be a service at 12 noon on March 13th at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Seneca. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that all donations be made to the Knights of Columbus.

To donate, please mail checks to:

Knights of Columbus
PO Box 725
Seneca, SC 29679-0725

If you prefer to donate digitally, please use the below Venmo. Gene’s Granddaughter will be compiling and mailing, as the Knights are not currently set up for Digital Donations.
Venmo: @megtayjack

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