Al Rodgers

Alvis Rodgers died peacefully in his home on December 19, 2014 in Abilene at the age of 77. Al is survived by his wife, Jannie Rodgers; children Richard Rodgers and wife T. Lee of Abilene, Rodney Rodgers and Terri Cadwell of Abilene, and Randal Rodgers and wife Lorie of Midland; grandchildren, Kandice and Bear Nitsch, Koby Rodgers, Dalee Rodgers, Christian Rodgers, Kallie Rodgers, Karlie Rodgers, Coltyn Rodgers all of Abilene, Gabby Reinert of Peoria Arizona and Kaylee Rodgers of Midland; two great grandsons, Kaeden Sands and Brody Nitsch both of Abilene; brother Ray Rodgers and wife Mickey of Eastland, sister Charlene Thackerson of Bowie, brother Benny Rodgers and wife Marilyn of Azle, brother-in-law James Morton and wife Suni of Midland; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Al was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Dealva Fox Rodgers; brother, Milton Rodgers; brother-in-law, James Thackerson; parents-in-law, Dick and Dois Hodges and Bill and Florence Morton; and sister-in-law, Kay Morton. Al was born on May 16, 1937 in Gorman Texas to Pete and Dealva Rodgers. He graduated from Olden High School in1955 and served in the National Guard for three years. Al married Jannie Morton on November 7, 1959 and enjoyed 55 blessed years together. He owned and operated a service station soon after their marriage. In 1969 Al and Jannie moved their family to Abilene where he worked at KNIT radio station. Later he worked for Weathermasters learning the air conditioning and heating profession. This experience led Al and Jannie to establish their own business, Al Rodgers A/C and Heating. Al developed special friendships through his work ethic and his love of people; everyone he met became his friend. Al was a member at Elmwood West United Methodist Church where he served several terms as a trustee. Music was Al’s passion, inspired by his love of gospel. He began his professional music career in 1960 playing bass with Teddy Neeley and the Teddy Bears (later known as the Spirals). His bands toured the country while backing musicians such as Roy Clark, and Sue Thompson. Al, Michael Henry Martin, and Bob Wimberly formed the Topics and became one of the top bands in the Abilene region. Al had a special connection with the Lord through his love of gospel music. Visitation with the family is scheduled for Sunday, December 21, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road, Abilene. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm Monday, December 22, at Elmwood West United Methodist Church, 1302 South Pioneer, Abilene. Reverend Jeff Hatcher will officiate the ceremony with Reverend Ray Rodgers assisting. Entombment will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park Mausoleum III. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Al’s life. Pallbearers will be Gayland Seaton, Herman Alsup, Fred Heatherly, Steve Schroeder, Koby Rodgers and Guy Gamble. The family extends our sincere thanks to Dr. John Wray and Hendrick Hospice for the loving care of Al. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Elmwood West United Methodist Church, 1302 South Pioneer Dr., Abilene, Texas 79605.