Richard E. Rogers

1954 - 2021

Richard "Chief" Rogers, 67, passed away on Monday, September 20, 2021. He was born in Birmingham, Alabama on August 8, 1954, to Betty Sue Rogers and Charles Edward Rogers. He is survived by his daughters, Dr. Alicia Rogers Saunders husband Scott, Julie Anne Lumley husband Claude; Grandson, Atlas Dean Lumley; Brothers, Clarence Edward Rogers, Randy Jay Rogers wife Marion; Sister, Tana Sue Hardegree husband Rodney and many nieces and nephews. Rick graduated in 1972 from East Brunswick High School in New Jersey. He enlisted into the United States Navy and became a Fighting Seabee during the Vietnam era. After Rick was honorably discharged, he continued his diesel engine training and achieved his Marine & Industrial Engine Certification. He pursued an offshore career as a Merchant Seaman traveling the world where he became the Chief Engineer. That's how his friends know him as "Chief". He later came back to the states and settled in Texas, after which he attended Sam Houston State and Prairie View A&M Universities. He obtained his teaching certificate and taught Diesel Mechanics at Barbara Jordan High School providing certification for students to pursue job opportunities with Houston Metropolitan Transit Authority. Rick enjoyed playing his banjo and singing for whomever would listen. He had a big personality, big grin and a loud laugh to go with it. Rick really loved playing Santa for anybody and everybody, but especially for children. He loved being the center of attention, but he mostly loved his daughters and all of their accomplishments. Private committal service performed at the Houston National Cemetery with full military honors.