Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

About

Michigan State University

Prentis Rogers Obituary

Family-Placed Death Notice

Prentis A. Rogers "Skipper", the only child born to Mattie Elaine Rogers and the late James Isaac Rogers on August 6, 1953 in Atlanta, GA. Prentis attended Our Lady of Lourdes Elementary School and graduated from St. Joseph's High School in 1971. He excelled academically and was an active participant in music and sports. He completed his bachelor's degree from Michigan State University in 1975, majoring in Journalism.. Soon after graduating, his passion for writing led him to Atlanta Daily World newspaper as a sports columnist. The Atlanta Journal- Constitution recognized his talents and flair for words in the world of sports and hired him to write for its College and High School sports section. Prentis rose to the occasion, becoming editor and columnist, covering the NBA, NHL and Boxing. His career spanned 23 years with AJC. Additionally, Prentis spent time as a disc jockey and sharing his love for music with Hillside Church Family and Atlanta community. His service to youth and civic organizations of Atlanta where equally heartfelt and important. To cherish his fond memories and many funny stories, are his devoted wife, Yvonne Manning Rogers, son Devere Rogers, mother, Mattie E. Rogers, aunt, Carmen Rogers and Godson, Kameron Treece, brothers and sisters-in-law, Felix (Shannon) Manning, Earlene (Randolph) Morton, Nadine (Tom) Crandall, Sandra Wood and Gregory (Ruby Jean) Manning, nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbor friends, college and high school buddies. His colleagues from the AJC were an extension of his immediate family. He remained friendly with local and national colleagues in the sports world of broadcast and print journalism. In the field of sports reporting, he will be definitely missed. Prentis traveled the world with his wife and son, enjoying life with vigor...What a life he lived under God's watchful eye! The Celebration of Prentis' life will take place on Saturday, December 13th, 2003 at 3:00 pm, Hillside Chapel and Truth Center, 2450 Cascade Road, Atlanta, GA 30311. (404) 758-6811. Viewing TODAY 9am-9pm at Murray Brothers Cascade Chapel, 1199 Utoy Springs Road, S.W. Atlanta, GA (Cascade Road near I-285), 404-349-3000. mbfh.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution from Dec. 11 to Dec. 12, 2003.

Memories and Condolences
for Prentis Rogers

Sponsored by Gustav James.

423 Entries

Mike Dooley

February 5, 2021

Prentis and I were roommates, in a dorm, for awhile at Michigan State University in the early 1970s. The first memory that comes to me is both of laughing and laughing, and I mean hard, one night over the book Ball Four. We had both read it. I also remember some of the music I picked up on from him, especially War's album The World is a Ghetto and a group called Osibisa. I can't hear "Four Cornered Room" without thinking of Prentis. He was also a big fan of the Rolling Stones. And, he had Steely Dan's first album, Can't Buy a Thrill, and that was a revelation for me. He was a good guy. We never again touched base, though. I'm sorry to hear he's gone.

Nadine Crandall

January 8, 2016

It's been a long time since I wrote, but just last week I thought of you and the joy you brought to so many. As if you don't know, DeVere turned out to be a fine young man. Yes, he did make it to the big screen as you predicted. He's tall (6'4" to be exact), and doing all he can to be the artist you always knew he'd become. HBO and TV shows, yes, even on an off Broadway. Wow, he's doing really well. Just checking in with all the angels to let them know they're still sorely missed and loved. Tell mama and Felix, Granny, Aunt Ruby and Aunt Lucille, oh, and Aunt Paulette too, just all of them, (your mom too), hello from all of us. We celebrate the love you all shared with us and glad to spread some among those who weren't lucky enough to meet you. Missing you all,
Your sister-in-law, Nadine

Carlos Frias

October 10, 2010

Remembering my friend, the late Prentis Rogers, who once challenged me to "do stories you don't think you can do." I've tried to apply that to every aspect of my life, and I'm heartened when it's his mellow, hopeful voice I hear in the back of my head.

Mike Luck

April 18, 2009

Still miss you brother.

Nadine Manning Crandall

December 9, 2005

Oh how I miss you so. What an honor to have been blessed with your graciousness and to have you as a brother-in-law. Seems only yesterday you were chuckling with the family and getting ready to do something exciting and fun. It's been two years now and we still love and miss you very much. Say hello to the rest of the angels for us.

Wanda Cameron

November 29, 2005

WE are sorry to her about this loss. We will keep this family in our prayers!

Diana Pack

June 28, 2004

I am indeed blessed and favored to have met the spirit that resided

in Prentis Rogers.Prentis ,Yvonne and Devere became a part of my extended family when I resided in

Atlanta.Real people that exemplifed

family unity and love.When I came over to the house or I called them on the phone we shared such good times with one another .We laughed had profound talks and I miss those times.God is present even now .

When all is said and done the Lord

will comfort the hearts of his

children .Yvonne, I believe that my

prayer is being answered and that

He is giving you the strength that no one else can to move from day

to day .I celebrate the life, the joy, the laughter, the strength, and most of all the love that graced this planet in the humanly form of Prentis Rogers .

Love You.

Diana Pack,Courtney Pack

Emzie Penny

June 10, 2004

I did not know Mr. Prentis personally, but just hearing others speak so highly of him let me know that he was a good man. I was blessed with the opportunity to play in the first Prentis Rogers Memorial Classic for the East Team. I really enjoyed every second of it. My team won the championship against the South Team. I want to thank Mr. Prentis and everyone else who made this tournament possible. God Bless the Rogers family and friends.

Don Sechelski

June 8, 2004

I am saddened and shocked to hear of Prentis' passing. Although I hadn't seen him in years, He and I graduated from St Joe's together. I always enjoyed reading his work and took pleasure in rembering our days together in school. Prentis was the sports editor of our paper and I was the editorial editor. I wasn't at all surprised to see the great success to which his love of journalism took him.

don

Esther and Charles (Bill) Powell

March 1, 2004

The Smalley family in Lexington, North Carolina will always cherish the memory of Prentis. He always showed much love for our family. We all appreciate and remember the effort that he and Yvonne exhibited in planning and coordinating the 2001 family reunion that was held in Savannah, Georgia.

We want Yvonne and the rest of Prentis' family to know that he will be greatly missed but not forgotten. We love you.

Your cousins,

Bill and Esther

Alex & Deloris H. Bentley

January 22, 2004

Yvonne,

We were saddened to hear of the passing of Prentis, we send our deepest sympathy. You are like family to us, so this is a loss to us as well. We are sorry that we couldn't be with you and your family due to the sickness and death of Deloris' father who passed December 16, 2003.

Yvonne, I met Prentis through your friendship with my wife. Prentis was a good man, we clicked the first time we met. I enjoyed reading his newspaper articles and our conversations about sports. I must say from our friendship I met a man of great character, integrity and a great Journalist. When I last spoke with Prentis, he spoke of preparing Devere for educational opportunities that lie ahead. I must say it was an honor to know Prentis.

The AJC and Atlanta area have lost a great asset to the community and he will be greatly missed.

May God bless, strengthen and comfort you during this difficult time... We will keep you in our prayers and you do the same for us...

Love,

Ebony Davenport- Smith

January 22, 2004

Prentis and Yvonne,

Both possess pleasant and caring spirits. My family was deeply saddened to hear of the loss of such a thoughtful, uplifting and gifted young man. Together they created a beautiful son who will carry on the spirit of his father. It is a blessing to have known Prentis.

Connie Freightman

January 12, 2004

Yvonne and family,

You have my deepest sympathy. Prentis was a great journalist and a wonderful person. I had an opportunity to get to know him as a colleague at the AJC. Whenever I saw Prentis, he would always greet me -- and others -- with a smile and an encouraging word. He will be missed. May God be with you.

Matthew Verden

January 10, 2004

You will be miss....... But I know that you're in a better place!

myke oconnell

January 10, 2004

I am shocked in reading this,Prentis will be missed, the guy was great and I am extremely sad to here of his lose, fine example for all to follow. gods speed my friend

Elizabeth Deschesne

January 9, 2004

We are shocked and saddened to hear about Prentis. Over the course of our first season of football, he was always willing to help us get as much coverage as possible. I looked forward to our phone calls.

All of us in the Atlanta Xplosion Women's Football organization wish to extend our prayers to his family and friends.

A wonderful guy will be truly missed.

alfred malone

January 6, 2004

may god be with the family and friends of mr.rogers. our sympathy and prayers are with you

Jeff McVey

January 6, 2004

I sympathize with you in your loss.

Dave Harris

January 6, 2004

Mr. Prentis Rogers leaves a professional legacy that any man could be proud of. I pray that those close to him are comforted by that fact. Thank you for many years of professionalism and excellence.

Peggy Ludaway

January 6, 2004

I met him when he first came to Atlanta . He stated I will see his name in print. His spirit will be missed.

Andre Pope

January 6, 2004

As an Atlanta native, I enjoyed Prentis' articles for many years. He will be dearly missed by many. My sympathies are extended to his wife and family. May God continue to bless yoy all.

John & Gussie Kelley

January 5, 2004

Prentis, we will always love and miss you. You were a bright star shining in our family.

Yvonne, may happy memories comfort

you, Devere, and family. Love.

Grady & Tonya Stokes

January 5, 2004

May God be with your family during their loss.

Jennie Brock

January 4, 2004

Thank you for all your contributions and commentaries. You will be sorely missed. Deepest sympathy to the family.

Derick Hackett , Black College Communications Assoc.

January 4, 2004

Prentis was a great example for many young black journalist who entered the field. Young journalist continue to let Prentis and his work to be an example, continue to fight the struggles, to not fall to public and staff pressures, to practice good and fair journalism.

Linda Williams

January 3, 2004

My deepest sympathies. I am not a big sports fan but have always enjoyed Mr. Rogers contributions.

Dona Treece-Scott

January 1, 2004

My deepest sympathy to Yvonne, Devere and Family. My prayers are with you.

donnell mckinney

January 1, 2004

Rest well my friend. Over the years I have deeply enjoyed your writing. You will be missed.

Donnell Mckinney

Mathis Jones

December 31, 2003

Most days when I read the AJC,

It's Terrance & Prentis in that order. I Love T Moore. In my mind I tried to compare their opionns, but

it was Prentis that would calm me down from from Mr.T. Even though there was no competition between them, In my mind they competed for

my attention. With me being fifty,I feel he had much more to give.

I WILL MISS MR PRENTIS RODGERS.

Eli Saucier

December 31, 2003

May God Bless the Rogers Family in their time of sadness.

Nadine Crandall

December 31, 2003

I see your face smiling at me everyday, I also hear you laughing, talking, and just being Prentis hanging out with the family. We miss you more today than we did yesterday. With each day there is something else that we miss...just you Prentis...just you. But in your earthly time, you taught us how to live, love and enjoy family and friends. Some of us come here to stay for a long, long time, others, like yourself, are God's angels just passing through to do the greatest good in a short period of time. You were the angel that swept our lives, touched our souls, and made light when there was darkness. Your legacy lives on in all of us, especially, in Yvonne, DeVere and Mrs. Rogers. Thanks for spreading your wings Prentis, your sister-in-law.

Chip Zeller

December 31, 2003

The lives you touched say it all- a kind, giving and gentle spirit in a too often selfish profession. Thank you for being an example to us all. You will be missed.

"Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can."

-John Wesley

Eric Pressley

December 30, 2003

Our loss is heaven's gain!

Mr. Rodgers will be missed on so many levels, in so many ways, by so many people.

Let’s all remember to lift his family in prayer.

Michael Lewellen

December 29, 2003

A friendly voice in the world of journalism has been silenced. But the memories of someone who was truly one of "good guys," will live forever. We've lost our dear friend, but God has got one heck of writer in heaven. No one was ever kinder to me both at FOX Sports Network and now at Black Entertainment Television than Prentis.

Donald White

December 28, 2003

Prentis was a gem. I met him at Atlanta Academy. My daughter and his son were attending the new private school. When we introduced ourselves to each other, things clicked. I knew this was a righteous brother. To me, he became my brother. Every time we met, we would exchange niceties and then become engross in conversation. Prentis loved people, especially, Black folks. We would talk about ways to help uplift our people all the time.

He became a brother away from home. It is hard to find someone to talk over personal situations, today. Too many are concerned about acquiring materials. That was not Prentis. Whenever, I needed to talk and called him, he would listen.

I am writing this guest entry stunned. You see My wife and I did not know that Prentis had died until early morning of 12/27/2003. It is still hard for me to accept it. I am still waiting to run into him somewhere in East Point, GA and have a long conversation. I am still waiting to see him and Yvonne at his son's graduation. Prentis and Yvonne were so good to my daughter Elisa. My wife and I want to be as good to their son, Devere.

On December 10, 2003, Prentis passed on. On December 13, 2003, was his funeral. December 11, 2003, I went to Lexington, KY. My uncle died December 10, 2003. His funeral was December 13, 2003. Knowing my uncle and Prentis, they probably bumped into each other on their way to heaven.

May the ancestors be with them. I will miss them.

Danny Wofford

December 27, 2003

Thank you for sharing your talents with us. Your journey ended too soon in our eyes, but we don't make the plans. Rest in peace.

Tevye & Jennifer Harper

December 27, 2003

"No one is ever born into Life alone. Everyone has shared the bond of family, at least at birth, and for many people it is a bond that will follow them throughout life. For many people it is the most important bond of all."

Sorry we never met. Wish we could have met time. Our condolense to all the family and friends who blessed to know him.

Love,

Tevye & Jennifer Harper

Clementine White

December 27, 2003

To Yvonne and Devere:

My family and I just found out about the sudden passing of Prentis.We extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family. We will keep you all in our prayers.

Patrice Culbreath Henry

December 26, 2003

To My Family: Let us comfort one another: 'For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first; Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with the Lord'---II Thessalonians 4:16-18. Until we meet again, may the peace of Our Lord Jesus Christ be with you always.

Bill Sengstacken

December 26, 2003

I'm terribly sorry to hear this news - I didn't always agree with Mr. Rogers, but I always respected his passion. He will be missed.

Bill

Bethany Spotts

December 25, 2003

My condolences to the Rogers' family. No one can begin to know your pain. I met Prentis in Atlanta the year he graduated from Michigan State. He taught me many things. I will miss him.

Mike Luck

December 25, 2003

Today is Christmas, a day of giving. But Prentis Rogers didn't just give on one day. He did it every day he lived, giving out kindness, compassion, joy, love, sincerity, concern, understanding and friendship to everyone he encountered.

I have always been proud of my friend Prentis in the 23 years I have known him. But seeing this guestbook and several ceremonies in his honor shows me the remarkable impact he had with his life and I am even prouder of him now.

I will never forget you PR.

God bless Yvonne, Devere and Prentis's mom.

Glen Pridgen

December 25, 2003

I have grown up reading the Atlanta Paper my whole life and have come to see most of you as family. Prentis, you were a joy to read and i will miss your musings!

Glen (formally of buckhead)

Gary McClain

December 24, 2003

I am just one of a countless number of individuals who swept through the newspaper each day, sometimes stopping at your byline. I appreciate having the opportunity to say, Thank-you Prentis. I enjoyed the works of your life.

Charles L. Williams

December 23, 2003

to the family of Prentis I love him like a brother, he and I worked very hard for the kids at Atlanta Acadeny. He always made it to all the meeting that dealt with the growth of the school and it's childern. He and others start programs for boys and worked to build a better school for learning and teaching and he lead my example. I love and miss my brother but I know that he is in a better place. God bless and keep him in his arms.

Bob Giles

December 23, 2003

Reading through some of the 38 pages of tributes for Prentis just reinforces my impression that he was one of the special people in our business. Prentis was one of the first people I met when I began working in AJC sports. His kindness, down-to-earth professionalism and complete lack of pretense made him stand out. He and his family have been in my prayers.

Calvin Jackson

December 23, 2003

Being a native Atlantan I will truly miss your honest,fair and heart felt comments from someone that I trusted with the news, Thanks for your presence!

Arthur Triche

December 23, 2003

To the family, friends and colleagues of Prentis, I would like to add to the many heartfelt comments by saying I will also miss his professionalism and kinship, and the working relationship I enjoyed with him in my position with the Atlanta Hawks. He never refused a call and if we had a disagreement of any sort, it was smoothed over by the end of our conversation...it was never personal or lingered on for days on end. My prayers go out to his wife and son, his friends at the AJC and the numerous fans of his craft...he will be missed.

David Morgan

December 22, 2003

Yvonne & Devere:

Namaskar! I don't want either one of you to think that you have not been in my prayers. I got married the same day that Mr. Rogers had his Transitional Celebration. God knows, I am here for you and I will be visiting the church just to let both of you know that I love both of you and I will do whatever it takes to let you know that I love both of you and have the utmost respect and love for you and your FAMILY!!!

David

Robert Jennings

December 22, 2003

Thanks for your good work an your love for all kids an all sports.

Carroll Rogers

December 21, 2003

Prentis was gracious and kind to me the day last summer when I lost a best friend to a car accident. So hard to believe he's been taken from us now too. I will miss his smile, his calming influence and his infectious greetings with every trip past his desk. I was proud to be a fellow Rogers in the newsroom. My thoughts are with his wife and son.

Tony & Stephanie Johnson

December 21, 2003

Prentis truly exemplified a man of his craft and a pillar of his community. May god bless you and your family.

john wallick

December 20, 2003

Mrs.Rogers and family

I wish that I was able to extend my arms and be of comfort to you all during these difficult times. As you are aware, Prentis was a very special person and more than a brother to me. His absence has created a void in the life of many as well as mine. He will be greatly missed. This is probably one of the most difficult things that you will ever have to endure. Know that the God you serve is loving, caring and watching over you.

Dennis Gates

December 20, 2003

My prayers go out to the family and Mr.Rogers will be missed....Thanks for all the memories through your stories

General Peters

December 20, 2003

I just met Prentis at a conference for the Peach Bowl a few years back. Prentis was one of the few that gave this old man the time of day and I found him to be very fascinating. Even though he could have been enjoying the free buffet and colored drinks with the rest of the writers, he made me feel invaluable to be a part of the festivities. God the Rogers family and rack the trolls!

Tom O'Malley

December 20, 2003

What a shock and great loss for all readers of the AJC. My prayers are with your family. See you in Heaven my brother.

Tom O'Malley

Ted Langford

December 20, 2003

I am one of a long line of people who have had the good fortune of working with Prentis at the AJC. He and I worked on the sports desk at the AJC during the mid-80s. Although he sat right across from me we did not talk much because we were so busy trying to make sense of all the events of the day. The one thing I remember about Prentis was how calm he was even though everything around us was chaotic. I hope his family and friends will find peace in this time. May God bless you.

Carnell Mills

December 20, 2003

His work was admired. God bless.

Damon Scharff

December 20, 2003

To the family of Prentis Rogers,

I am extremely sorry for your loss. I only knew him through the paper but always appreciated his style and the way he communicated - especially the radio/TV column. It's strange but I was always curious about who this man was that wrote this way - honest but courteous, professional but human...he will be missed.

Lou Barnes

December 19, 2003

My life has forever been changed by your friendship, camaraderie, and humor. I will miss that biting wit and sarcasm that I could always depend on to lend perspective to this crazy world. You were one of a kind, and I will never be able to replace you my friend. Much love and so long until we meet again my brother.

Rojene Bailey

December 19, 2003

Pentis was a really great person. He will be missed. God bless his family....

Rojene

David McKoy

December 19, 2003

A Role Model sent from God! Your work here on earth is not finish. Your work will contiune by those whom you have touched.

Spencer Gazaway

December 19, 2003

I have read the AJC since I was old enough to read. Newspapers inspired me to learn and journalists like Prentis Rogers were the source of that inspiration.

W Phillips

December 19, 2003

To the family Sorry for your loss

Steve White

December 18, 2003

To the Rogers Family,

God Bless you and know that Mr. Rogers' work was some of the best this paper offered. Rest in Peace Mr. Rogers

Theodoris Gibbs

December 18, 2003

I did not know Mr. Prentis Rogers personally, but his columns in the AJC were some of my favorites. I was saddened to learn of his passing. My God continue to give his family strength during this time. Rest in Peace Prentis. A Fan in Social Circle. T. Gibbs

Dennis Moore

December 18, 2003

My deepest sympathies to the Rogers Family. As an avid reader of the AJC (my brother Terence also writes for the AJC)I really enjoyed reading Mr. Rogers over the years and his hard work and unique style will be truly missed.

Randall Patterson

December 18, 2003

My prayers are with the family. May God give you a peace that surpasses all understanding.

Allicia & Ebonee Bowers

December 17, 2003

My dearest Yvonne

Here we are again at a crossroad and we both know that God is in the midst. Just remember that God loves you and we love you too. When I came to Hillside you and your family were one of my first friends. We have managed to keep that friendship even unto death and our journey will continue. I love you dearly and don't you ever forget that. Anytime you need me for anything you know what to do.

May Gods peace continue to have place in your lives.

Love always

Queen Allicia and Princess Ebonee

WE LOVE YOU PRENTIS!!!!!!

FRED KALIL

December 17, 2003

I knew Prentis only on a professional level, but he was a good man who cared about his job and about the people he wrote about in his daily column. he was way too young, my prayers are with his family and they move forward without their loved one.

Eddie Sefko

December 17, 2003

Prentis was a true pro, somebody we could all respect within the business. He was a good sportswriter and, more importantly, a good man.

Dwayne Treece

December 17, 2003

Prentis was a mentor for all men. Prentis showed through his actions how the love within a family can carry the family through. I will miss Prentis and my prayers are with his wife and son, Yvonne and Devere.

Thomas Crandall

December 17, 2003

The family lost a lot when you suddenly left us. You memory will live forever in our hearts. One of the funniest stories you ever told me was of the family vacation trip to Disney. Yvonne and Nadine begged you to wear walking shoes, but you insisted your sandals would be cooler. I hear you laughing man, because you aked everybody for a metal nail file so you could amputate your feet. Man, you were laughing so hard when you told me this! We've lost the warmest, funniest, and most caring peron to ever enter our lives. We love and miss you today and forever. Your brother-in-law.

West WOOD IV

December 17, 2003

On the day of my uncles passing I woke up that morning with a NEED to be with him. At seven o'clock am I was there.As I was walking into the hospital room his phone was ringing and I got the last chance to hear that wonderful "HELLO" that just makes you light up inside when you heard it. It was no one on the other end, his phone would ring but he would not be able to hear the person on the other end. Hey nephew! Is what he said with a great big smile. He looked so good, his skin was clear, his hair was normal length with a tight shape as if he'd just left the barbara shop. I took him a balloon that read "get well soon" around a number of sporting signs. He thanked me and shook my hand with the same firm hand shake as always. For next few hours we talked about school, sports, Devere, and how he couldn't wait until thursday when they would let him go him. Later on that morning my aunt came in. She gave him a toothbrush to brush his teeth, she washed his face, and asked him a couple questions about the vibrators that they had on his legs. He replied that they were there to keep the circulation going through his legs. At lunch time my aunt and I went to the cafeteria for lunch, they were not open yet so she decided to return to his room I decided to wait until they opened. After lunch I headed back up to the room. I played spades with my aunt and after playing a couple hands I noticed that my uncle had nooded off, so I decided to take a short one too. I awoke to my uncle wide awake laughing and joking with his close friend Mr. Willingham and his wife. After a while of listening in on there conversation I decided that it was getting late, and thought that he and my aunt would want some time alone. So as I was preparing to leave he thanked me for coming, he told me how thankful he was that I came. I replied,It's no need to thank me, because I know that you would do the same for me." and he replied "with no question." "Is there anything you want me to bring with me tommorrow when I come?" I said. "Naw man, just bring you but thanks anyway nephew." he answered. " I'll call you tonight and see if you have thought of something you want me to bring." Goodbye! This is the story of the last time I spent with my Uncle,Mentor,Friend,and role model

Yalonda McDowell

December 17, 2003

I didn't have a father figure growing up here in Atlanta, but there was Uncle Prentis. Because of him he showed me what a father should be, and because of him I knew what kind of man I wanted to marry. Uncle Prentis and my aunt Yvonne were the first to accept my new husband I find that fitting. Uncle Prentis came into our lives for a short time to show us what it means to walk in the image of GOD. I will love you forever and miss you always. I look forward to seeing you again in Heaven. Rest In Peace Uncle Prentis.

Steve Mehlman

December 17, 2003

"Only the good die young." That's especially true in this case. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and many friends.

John Turcotte

December 17, 2003

I was a year behind Prentis at St. Joseph High School, here in Atlanta. Of the many success stories that came from that little downtown school, his was one of the best. We were all very proud to be associated with him.

Godspeed Prentis Rogers.

Beverly Rush

December 17, 2003

"And again I will put my trust in him" Yvonne, and Devere rest, and find comfort in holding on to God's unchanging hands. Words alone cannot express my condolences for the void that I know you are experiencing. Please know that you are not alone..."He will never leave you he will always be there for you" kBeverly

[email protected]

Denise Samuels

December 16, 2003

Words can not express the sorrow that I feel. Prentis made a great impact on my life and I will never forget him. My prayers and thoughts will always be with the Rogers Family. The memories I will carry with me forever. To Yvonne and Devere, I love very much.

Emily Smith

December 16, 2003

Mr. Rogers-a joyous and kind man,

One of the few, I am such a fan,

He will be missed but I am quite sure,

he will be one of God's angels forever more...

Priscilla Walthall - Jester

December 16, 2003

Farewell Prentis....

Remembrance of days gone by from our childhood days at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School brought a tear to my eye.

Don Kunnmann

December 16, 2003

Though I moved to Jacksonville many years ago, I have never fallen out of love with the AJC's sports page. I often checked in my hometown's news and teams... and grew to be a big fan of Prentis' column. He never seemed to put himself before the story, and you knew you were getting reasoned ideas and opinions. Prentis' work will be missed by all the Sports fans of the Southeast.

May God comfort Mrs. Rogers and the family at this trying time.

rayshawn coleman

December 16, 2003

Prentis,was a hero to me,because were I'm from,the men in the newspaper did'nt look like us(people of color)I'll always remember Prentis!!

Dennis Dumler

December 16, 2003

Prentis was a friend to everyone, so I guess that I am not unique. However, I will still consider myself lucky to have known him. He was a fine person and a true professional. His comments in regards to my on air career were always honest which is all we, as journalists, should ever want. We are better people having known Prentis. God Bless.

Manning Family

December 16, 2003

On December 9th uncle prentis started his new life with christ. II Corinthians 5:17 says Therefore if any man be in christ, he is a new creature:Old things are passed away;behold all things are become new. Hearing of Prentis lost was so painful. Devere, Yvonne, and Mrs.Rogers I LUV U and yall are in our prayers. just remember to keep your head up. Remember uncle prentis has gone home and is know smiling down upon us now.I HEBREW 13:5 AND MATTHEW 28:20 says i will never leave you nor forsake you...Lo i will be with you always even until the end of the world.

emery duquette

December 16, 2003

loved your work,will miss you

god bless

Angelo Veney

December 16, 2003

You represented excellence. May God be with you and bless your family.

Clem Richardson

December 16, 2003

Prentis had big hair - and I just had hair - when we started at the AJC back in the early 80's. He was one of the most gracious and helpful people I ever met in this profession. We are poorer for his passing.

Mark Lockhart

December 16, 2003

May God bless you and your family.

Timothy Jenkins

December 15, 2003

In an age where the media strives for attention at the expense of ethics and the truth, Mr. Rogers was a welcome contrast. I considered his writings therapeutic. I will certainly miss him , but I am grateful that he not only wrote to make his living, but that he wrote to live his making. God Bless the Rogers family.

Michael Cook

December 15, 2003

Thanks Mr.Rogers for years of great and fair reporting. We will miss you greatly... God Bless

Michelle Hiskey

December 15, 2003

Prentis was one of only two editors on the desk on Fri. Dec. 5. No one knew that would be his last day in the office.

I came over to check on a story I had worked on for weeks. Most writers can relate to the uncertainty of whether the story we set out to write is the one that ends up on the computer screen.

My story needed a fresh pair of eyes. Those turned out to belong to Prentis.

“Oh it’s strong,” he said. “It’s strong.”

I walked away feeling on a cloud. In our fast-paced office, there is little time to give someone more than a, “Yeah, I got it, thanks.” When a compliment comes from someone who you respect, that means even more.

Prentis was such a person. He had the perfect temperament for daily journalism. He was laidback but engaged. He had a good sense of humor. He could shrug off politics and appear unruffled by much of anything. He offered a lot of enthusiasm and handled stories without a lot of hassle.

On deadline, his was a calm voice to hear on the phone.

I think of him saying to us now:

Be strong. Be strong.

Todd C. Duncan

December 15, 2003

We called ourselves the "old gunslingers." A small group of African-American reporters and editors from the AJC who get together from time to time. We gather at a little hole-in-the-wall on the Southside, listen to old R&B, talk sports, and nurse an adult beverage or two.

Prentis was the guy I most looked forward to seeing. I was the newcomer to the group and he always made me feel as if I had been there from the beginning — I was one of the boys. A friend. He was always in a good mood and never had a negative word to say about anyone. His smile could make anyone believe their day was about to get better.

He was true gentleman and I will miss him.

Carol Ratliff

December 15, 2003

Yvonne, Devere, and Family,

Our prayers are with you at this time. With deepest sympathy.

The Ratliffs

Mike Soltys

December 15, 2003

Prentis would write seven TV columns a week and still smile.

He would be lobbied by every network, tv station and commentator and remain fair.

Even now with his passing, as we read this guest book, he's teaching us all about living.

Goodbye old friend.

SHEILA SMITH

December 15, 2003

I was shocked and saddened when I heared about Prentis. I could not help but cry tears for Yvonne and Devera. Prentis was a friend of my late husband, who passed away last year. Al ( Smitty ) always spoke so highly of Prentis and had great respect for him. I met Prentis several times and he was always a gentleman. I like to think he and Al are together, talking sports. I only hope his family can find comfort in knowing his was well loved by many. I know it will be hard on Yvonne and Devera. The grief and lose can be overwhelming, but faith and friends can help you. If I can be of any help, please let me know.

My thoughts and prays are with you.

Sheila Smith

Bob Jackson

December 15, 2003

I was truly saddened to hear the news about Prentis. His work was very refreshing as he to me was the only true sports writer/reporter at the AJC. I was a fan of his work and will miss him dearly. God bless you and your family and know that there are hundreds of thousands who love you and pray for you.

Showing 1 - 100 of 423 results