Neil Rogers

Neil Rogers, 76, of Milton, FL, died Sunday, November 16, 2025. Born April 18, 1949 in Goshen, Indiana, he is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Christine; his daughter, Claire, whom he cherished; sisters Karen (Larry) and Joyce; brother Daryl (Sheila); his nephew, Marshall, and his uncle, Jim, who were much like brothers to him; nephews Eric and Elijah and niece Esther; and 14 grand and great-grand nephews and nieces. He is predeceased by his father, Richard; his mother, Barbara; and his nephew, Isaac. Neil was proud of his educational accomplishments, having earned an Associate's degree from Eastfield Community College; a Bachelor's degree in criminal justice from East Texas A&M University; a Master's degree in criminal justice from the University of South Florida; a Master's degree in history from the University of Florida; a Master's degree in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College; and a Ph.D. in history from Northern Arizona University. Neil's employment history ran the gamut, including baling hay on his uncle's farm, brakeman on the railroad, mobile home factory worker, police officer in Washington DC, private investigator, college administrator, university professor, and so many other occupations he's likely forgotten to tell us about. But his primary role in life, beyond husband and father, was as a soldier. Neil enlisted in the US Army National Guard at the rank of Private in 1969; in 1974, he completed Officer Candidate School and retired in 2006 at the rank of Colonel. His military career was almost as varied as his civilian career. His military training included Infantry, Airborne, Special Forces, Combat Engineering, Ordnance, and Civil Affairs. His many active-duty assignments included Communications Officer with the 11th Special Forces Group and Company D (Ranger) 151st Infantry; Intelligence Analysis Officer at White Sands Missile Range; Battalion S-1 with the 245th Engineer Battalion; Chief, Oral History at the US Army War College; Historian/Archivist for Task Force Russia at the Pentagon; Deputy Chief in joint cooperation with the International Police Task Force in Sarajevo, Bosnia; and Command Historian for the CFLCC Military History Group at Camp Doha, Kuwait. Colonel Rogers served with distinction throughout his career, and his awards include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, and the Combat Action Badge. Neil had a passion for aviation, held a private pilot's license, and owned two Piper Tri Pacers, both of which he restored himself. He was also a gun enthusiast and an expert marksman, although he was not a hunter. As a husband, father, and friend, Neil could certainly speak his mind, but he will always be remembered for his kindness and especially for his devotion to the protection of the weaker and more vulnerable. He was a great lover of animals-especially his cats-but he would also show great compassion for any living thing, be it a pet, a deer, or even a scorpion he found in the house. Neil will be greatly missed by all who loved him.
Neil will be buried with military honors at Sarasota National Cemetery (9810 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241) on Monday, November 24 at 1:00 pm. After the burial ceremony, the family will receive visitors in Riverview, FL, address provided upon request. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.