Larry J. Rodgers

Larry Jeffers Rodgers, 87, of Louisville passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.
He was born on March 21, 1938, in Frankfort, KY, to the late James Orville Rodgers and Ann Rebecca Whitton Rodgers. His stepmother Bess Walsh and siblings, John Rodgers, JoAnn Hudson, Arthur Rodgers and brother-in-law Gilmore Dutton also precede him in death.
Larry was a graduate of Good Shepherd High School in Frankfort. He received his bachelor's from Bellarmine University, earned his Master's in Education from Spalding University, and his Rank 1 from the University of Kentucky. Larry taught high school English at Flaget High School, Shawnee High School and Central High School, until his retirement in 2000.
Larry enjoyed playing tennis and basketball and took up golf in retirement. He and his wife travelled around the world, and he journaled their adventures daily. Larry loved all types of literature: newspapers, fiction, poetry, crossword puzzles and comics. He marveled in history and science museums. Wednesday evenings were reserved for KET's Nova Night. Larry was a dedicated father and grandfather who fostered a natural curiosity and playful antics like doing handstands in Lakeside's pool. As a self-described "country boy," Larry enjoyed watching wildlife from his back-yard porch, gardening, and long walks with his dogs. Larry was a member of the Veritas Society, League of Women Voters and Flaget Alumni Association.
Larry is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Mary Jo Dutton Rodgers; two daughters, Kathryn Rodgers Hilleary (Michael) and Joanna Rodgers Alexander (Eric); six grandchildren, Mary Abigail, Emma Zoie and Whitton Michael Hilleary; Lucy Kathryn, Griff Robert and Madelyn Mae Alexander; brothers, Flynn Rodgers (Patricia) and David Rodgers (Anita); dozens of nieces and nephews; and lifelong friends.
Funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Ratterman Funeral Home, 3711 Lexington Road, St. Matthews. Visitation will be prior to services starting at 10 a.m. at the funeral home.
Memorial gifts in the form of contributions may be made to KET (Kentucky Educational Television), 600 Cooper Drive, Lexington, KY 40502 or https://www.KET.org