J.R. Rodgers, 71, of the Massey Branch Community in Robbinsville, N.C., went home to be with the Lord early Friday, Oct. 18, 2019, at his residence.
He was the son of the late Frank Walter and Nellie Von Massey Rodgers. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Steve Rodgers.
J.R. loved people; he was a kind and generous soul who would never turn anyone away. He loved his kids and grandkids and enjoyed spending time with them. A self-taught computer expert, J.R. worked in building the IT department for Graham County and started the mapping of Graham County land parcels. He retired from Graham County after 17 years of service.
He was a Veteran of the US Navy and served his country proudly during the Vietnam Era.
J.R. is survived by his loving wife and companion of 37 years, Judy Toomey Rodgers; his daughter and son in law, Kari Beth and Shaun Garrison, of Robbinsville, N.C.; sons, Ricky Grindstaff and Casey Grindstaff, both of Robbinsville, N.C.; his sisters, Gail Corbin of Asheville, N.C., and Sandra Bowers of Robbinsville, N.C.; and his brother, Gary Rodgers of San Antonio, TX. He has 10 grandchildren, Catrina Buchanan (Chevron), J.T. Grindstaff, Sabrina Vaughn, Anna Grindstaff, Hali Garrison, Kena Grindstaff, Kade Garrison, Bryc Garrison, Lundin Grindstaff, and Lenox Grindstaff, and 3 great grandchildren, Khaygan Buchanan, Abel Buchanan, and Dottie Grindstaff. He has several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019 at the Townson-Smith Chapel. Revs. Jack Millsaps and Brian Stevens officiated. His childhood friend, Marty Maxwell conducted the graveside service at New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery, where Military Rites will be conducted by Eller- Rogers American Legion Post 192 and Carringer - Webster VFW Post 8635. The family receive friends from 1-3 p.m. Sunday at the Chapel, prior to the service.
Townson-Smith Funeral Home was honored to serve the Rodgers family.
An online register is available at townson-smithfuneralhome.com.