Donald E. Rogers Sr.

Donald Edward Rogers, Sr., son of the late Richard Williams and Delores V. Rogers, was born on October 18, 1949 in Baltimore, Maryland. On Sunday, May 13, 2018 he transitioned from this life to begin his journey to his heavenly home. Donald received his education in Baltimore City Public Schools, receiving a General Education Diploma after attending Job Corps in Pennsylvania. He then enlisted in the United States Army in 1969 where he became a skilled sharp shooter and paratrooper. After serving in the Vietnam War, he received an honorable discharge in 1971. “Peanut”, ”Jake” or “Donald Duck”, as he was affectionately known, worked for the University Hospital Medical System for over 20 years in housekeeping. Cleaning was one of his favorite things to do. He got great pleasure in family gatherings, listening to music, dancing, football, baseball and softball with the B2-Raiders in Druid Hill Park. He also passed the time away by assembling model planes and crabbing. Nobody could deny his love for Chinese food. So much so that he was often affectionately called “Geechie” for the amount of his white rice consumption. In August of 1972, he met the love of his life Jocelyn B. Coates and the two were united in holy matrimony August 25, 1973. Together they lovingly raised three children— Michael, Donald Jr. and Teaira. This gave him a new purpose and passion for living. Donald dedicated his life to Christ and was baptized on August 8, 2008. He continued his journey to strengthen his relationship with God through worship as a member of the Gillis Memorial C.C. Church, Baltimore and service to others until the end. He was preceded in death by one son, Michael S. Tillman; his parents, Richard Williams and Delores V. Rogers; and one brother, Dwight Rogers. He leaves to cherish his memories a devoted wife of 46 years, Jocelyn B. Rogers; son, Donald E. Rogers, Jr.; daughter, Teaira Nicole Castro; devoted son-in-law, Huleo Castro; devoted daughter-in-law, Nicole Rogers; eight grand-children, Mikael, Ashley, Cyra, Donald III, Jordan, Taylor, Davanta and Nicholas; one great-grandchild, Zuri; four brothers, Charles, Richardo, Andra and Stanley; six sisters, Charlise, Denita, Zena, Tujuana, Andrea and Sarah; a loving mother-in-law, Ella Mae Coates; a best friend, Johnny Johnson; and a host of in-laws,aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Tributes

Donald E. Rogers Sr.

October 18, 1949 - May 13, 2018