PHILIP RODGERS

Today, May 7, 2022, I discovered online that my former neighbor, Mr. Phil Rodgers, was deceased. He and I lived doors apart on the 10th floor, `B´ side, at The Woodner Apartments in D.C. We had many hallway chats and he was, just as others have described him, a quiet, gentle man. What I remember most about him were his full, unhurried attention as we chatted and that when he smiled, his whole face smiled, especially his eyes. I could always see the gentleness and the smile in his eyes. Rest in gentle peace, my neighbor.

I worked with Phil for many years at IRS and grew very fond of him. He had a wealth of knowledge that was beneficial to the IRS Historical Library created under my direction. He was a quiet gentle man with an interesting life.

Phil was a good friend to me and many others in the Dupont Circle neighborhood and a kind and gentle mentor to me for more than 30 years.

When I started at IRS in 2002 Phil was the only person at HQ who knew how to work the library of old policy manuals. Over the next six years we spent at least three hours a day working side by side on updating and digitizing the collection. Phil talked about taking the trolley to Redskins games as a child, working in his family business as a kid, shivering in a tent near the Arctic Circle while in the Service, and a long life of appreciating music. Thirty-four years my senior, he never shied away from listening to the newest experimental music or discussing the most progressive politics. I will remember his as generous, intelligent, humorous and open-minded.

A kind and beautiful sprit. It was a pleasure to work and learn and just to spend time with him.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.