David A. Rodgers

Obituary for David A. Rodgers
David Austin Rodgers, beloved father, brother, and respected community leader of Richmond, Indiana, passed peacefully on May 16, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer. Born to Charles and Margaret Rodgers on August 2, 1937, in Cleveland, Ohio, David's life was defined by dedication, warmth, and a generous spirit.
A proud graduate of Williams College, he received a bachelor's degree in political science in 1959. After, David spent over 50 successful years managing a prominent chain of radio stations, including local stations, under the entity of Whitewater Broadcasting Corp. He combined his professional devotion to broadcasting with serving others, tirelessly volunteering and serving on numerous charitable boards, notably the Nature Conservancy, Wayne County Foundation, Richmond Symphony Orchestra, Hayes Arboretum, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Wayne County. David's love for his community shone brightly through his extensive efforts to enrich Richmond's cultural and natural heritage. He was a friend to Cope Environmental Center, Earlham College, Reid Health, and the City of Richmond's Parks and Recreation Department. In recognition of his service, David received awards such as Wayne County Foundation Charles A. Rodefeld Award (2022), Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce Art Vivian Distinguished Community Leader Award (2017), Junior Achievement of Eastern Indiana Business Hall of Fame Inductee (2019), Nature Conservancy Volunteer of the Year (2008), and Girls Inc. named one of their vans after him. What we know for certain: His philanthropic impact reached far beyond what many could imagine. It was quiet and purposeful. It was never about the accolades - it was always about service, people, and community. He loved music, reading, gardening, and traveling. His travels were one of the most notable parts of David's life, as he explored all aspects of the natural world, including Brazil, Argentina, Mexio, Chile, Costa Rica, the Caribbean, Serbia, Australia, the Galápagos' Islands, and the Kamchatka Peninsula of Russia. David also loved a good road trip and had visited many National Parks and every state in the U.S.A. He will be missed beyond words - but we'll celebrate him in the music, remember him in the nature around us, and see him in our travel adventures. David's genuine kindness, generosity, and ability to listen with compassion made him an irreplaceable friend and mentor to many. He delighted in life's simple pleasures, from artistic endeavors to rooting enthusiastically during family sporting events and choir recitals. Passionate about travel, nature, religion, and plants, David embodied vitality and appreciation for the beauty of the world around him.
David was known by his family members for his tremendous dedication and support of both their personal lives and the family foundation, The Austin Memorial Foundation. His boundless devotion lives on through his son, Charlie Rodgers, daughter Lynne Rodgers, sisters, Sally Cole and Ann Loefflor, and grandchildren Katherine and Andrew, who survive him. David's enduring legacy reflects not only his professional accomplishments, but also his unwavering commitment to family, friends, and community.
David was an active and faithful member of First English Church in Richmond, touching many lives through his genuine spirituality and heartfelt support.
A memorial service honoring David Rodgers's remarkable life will be held at First Lutheran Church, on Saturday, May 31st, at 12pm. Visitation will occur beforehand from 10am-12pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Wayne County Foundation.
Doan & Mills Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.