Robert "Bobby" Monroe Rodgers

Goodbye, Mr. Rodgers... Bobby started his life on a cold winter’s day in 1939, born to Grace Monroe Rodgers and Clarence Lamar “Buck” Rodgers, but he was destined to warm the hearts of everyone he met. Robert Monroe Rodgers, known to many as a hardworking man with a knack for taking care of cars, and dispensing wisdom, graduated from Boyden High School in 1957. His love for cars began at the age of 12 when he started working alongside his dad at the family service station. He pumped gas, washed windows, checked oil and fine-tuned countless engines. He had a reputation as the go-to guy for anyone in need of a helping hand, a good laugh, or a life lesson. He was a guiding “father figure” to many young high school men whose first jobs were at the station. He was so proud of all they went on to accomplish! Mr. Rodgers retired from the Exxon Service Station in 2009 after decades of service—and likely after ensuring every bolt in the county was tightened just right. For more than 30 years, Bobby proudly participated in the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association (NSSA). He also held a legendary record at Al's Nighthawk for devouring nine footlong hotdogs in one sitting! When he wasn’t working, Bobby could often be found on the dance floor, shagging to the rhythm of beach music with a beer in hand. His infectious laughter brought joy to everyone fortunate enough to know him. Towards the end of his life, Bobby cherished the priceless company and support of the “Breakfast Club” at College BBQ. Their love and dedication during his final days was nothing but amazing! Bobby was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Patsy Rodgers Peninger. Mr. Rodgers is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Beverly Markey Rodgers. Their extraordinary love for each other was undeniable to everyone who knew them. His legacy lives on through his daughters, Elisha Sabido and Susan Lolley, who inherited his grit and grace…..and their husbands, Mike and John, who wisely joined the Rodgers pit crew. His grandsons, Cameron (and his wife Nicole) and Justin, continue to carry the torch—and probably a wrench or two—ensuring the family name remains synonymous with kindness, hard work, and a dash of good-natured mischief. His great-granddaughters, Olivia and Sofia, will undoubtedly hear countless stories about their great-grandfather’s larger-than-life presence, impeccable work ethic, and famous smile and laugh. Mr. Rodgers has now retired from the biggest station of all, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and laughter. He’s likely tuning up the pearly gates as we speak, ensuring everything runs as smoothly as his lifelong legacy. The family would like to thank Novant Hospice, and the Glenn A. Kiser Hospice House. The work you do is amazing! Its difficult to adequately express our gratitude to you. We can’t thank you enough for the compassion and respect you gave Bobby and our family through this very difficult journey. And another very special thank you to Venita, the most wonderful caregiver we could have asked for to help us through all of this. In leiu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Glenn A Kiser Hospice House at 1229 Statesville Blvd., or another charity of your choice. A celebration of life “drop in” will be held at the Forest Glen Club House (200 Forest Glen Drive) on Thursday, December 19th from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. Rest easy, Mr. Rodgers. Your engine may have stopped, but your legacy runs forever.

Robert "Bobby" Monroe Rodgers

December 22, 1939 - December 16, 2024