John Wayne Rodgers

John Wayne Rodgers obituary

John Wayne Rodgers

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Mar

21

Visitation

3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Dorman-Riley Smith & Sons

8808 Highway 87 North, Orange, TX

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John Rodgers Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Dorman-Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home on Mar. 19, 2026.
John Wayne Rodgers was born May 15, 1941, and passed away March 18, 2026, at the age of 84.
He was a man who found his greatest peace beneath open skies and among the quiet rhythms of nature. Whether casting a line at sunrise, tracking game through the woods, or simply sitting beside a fire as the day faded, he felt most at home in the outdoors he loved so deeply.
He had a natural gift for building and creating, always working with his hands and taking pride in every project he completed. From small fixes to big undertakings, he approached each task with patience, skill, and determination, leaving behind not just finished work, but lasting pieces of himself.
He was known for his love of gathering people together, especially around a good barbecue. The smell of smoke, the sound of laughter, and the presence of family and friends were among his greatest joys. He didn't just cook meals, he created moments that brought people closer.
Above all else, he was devoted to his family. He cherished time spent with them, offering strength, guidance, and a steady presence that could always be counted on. His love was simple, strong, and unwavering, expressed not just in words, but in everything he did.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sharon Rodgers; children, Stacey Gardner and husband Harold, and John Adam Rodgers and wife Tisha; grandchildren, Brendan Gallagher, Dylan Gardner, and Taylor Majda; and numerous nieces, and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Ruth Rodgers; siblings, David Rodgers, Leon Rodgers, and Darlene Fountain.
Family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Dorman - Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home, 8808 Highway 87 North, Orange, Texas. Cremation was entrusted to Dorman - Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home.

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Yesterday

Robert Vance, brother in law posted to the memorial.

March 19, 2026

Dorman-Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home announced events.

March 19, 2026

Dorman-Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home posted an obituary.

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Robert Vance, brother in law

Yesterday

John was like an older brother to me, always patient with me and taught me so much as I learned building things from him as a young kid and throughout life from welding, carpentry and even some fishing and hunting,(I was never the accomplished sportsman he was) but he always included me and I will always treasure my time with him.

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Dorman-Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home

8808 Highway 87 North, Orange, TX 77632

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Upcoming Events

Mar

21

Visitation

3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Dorman-Riley Smith & Sons

8808 Highway 87 North, Orange, TX

Send Flowers