William "Billy" Rogers

William "Billy" Rogers, passed away on January 3, 2026, at the age of 77 after a long, courageous battle to cancer. He was born on March 24, 1948.

A proud graduate of Topeka High School, he went on to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army after high school. During the Vietnam War, he held the important role of Avionics Mechanic, an experience that shaped his character and instilled a spirit of service.

Billy was employed by the City of Topeka's Water and Pollution Control Department as an Inspection and Verification Operator.

Outside of work, Billy's passions shone brightly. A lifelong lover of baseball, he spent his youth playing the sport he adored and later organized a baseball team for the city workers, bringing joy and camaraderie to many. He was known to many as "Baseball Billy". His enthusiasm for sports extended to cheering for the University of Kansas and the Kansas City Chiefs. Billy enjoyed watching NASCAR. Billy had an appreciation for music, especially blues music—he rarely missed a blues concert, often traveling extensively with his wife, Diane, to enjoy the performances that brought them happiness. Over the years, they seen many artists including B.B. King. He also enjoyed the great outdoors and loved animals.

He is survived by his brother, Jerry (Mary) Rogers; sisters, Jana (Allen) Murphy and Kristie Root; and stepbrother, Rick Root. Additionally, he leaves behind several cherished nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 49 years, Diane Rogers; his father, LaVerne F. Rogers; his mother, Donna J. (Rogers) Root; sister, Tondra Overstreet; and brother, Leslie Root, Jr.

A celebration of Billy's life will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at the VFW Philip Billard Post #1650, located at 3110 SW Huntoon St, Topeka, KS 66604. Billy's family requests that you wear your favorite Chief's, KU or NASCAR apparel. In his honor, memorial contributions can be made to Midland Hospice, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606 or to the VFW Philip Billard Post #1650.

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