Thomas Lee "Jet" Rogers

1932 - 2021

Thomas Lee "Jet" Rogers

Jet passed away peacefully at his home on June 28, 2021. He was born on August 25, 1932, in Goodwater, Alabama, to proud parents John Max and Mincie Skipper Rogers.

Jet attended schools in both Coosa County and Elmore County, Alabama. Upon graduation from Elmore County High School, he continued his education at Itawamba Junior College and Delta State Teachers College in Mississippi, acquiring a B.S. Degree in Health, Physical Education with a minor in Biology. The year - 1954 - was a highlight of his football career. DSTC Statesmen team won every football game that season.

Jet served in the Korean Conflict, two years, as an Army medic . He entered the coaching profession in 1960, and spent six years coaching high school football in Mississippi. His lifelong dream was to coach for Paul "Bear" Bryant at the University of Alabama. He was granted this opportunity in 1966 and, as a graduate assistant football coach, worked with the defensive ends and defensive line positions; while, at the same time, recruiting outstanding high school players in the state of Mississippi. He acquired his master's degree and was hired full-time.

In 1973, Jet was named the head football coach at Pensacola High School. In his first year at PHS, he took his players to the University of Alabama to meet Coach "Bear"Bryant and to visit the campus. Jet loved all of his players, and many of them actually called him "daddy."

In 1978, Jet became a Community School Coordinator for Escambia County School System. He was later appointed as the Director of this program. Upon Jet's retirement, he began another career in which he served high school and college football coaches in the reconditioning and recertification of their athletic equipment.

Jet is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Jean Ray Rogers, and his loving sister, Beverly Rogers Evans (Tommy), of Wetumpka, Alabama. Jet and Jean have three children: Mincie Chappelle, Tommy Rogers, Jr., and Jeanie Corcoran (Shawn). Grandchildren: Donnie, Kristen, Koda, Hunter, Trevor, Tanner, Stephanie, Stuart, Jaclyn (deceased), and Sloan, and 4 great-grandchildren: Nolan, Lakelyn, Alleyia, and Cooper "Jet."

Jet loved his church, and served as deacon for many years. His family expresses their gratitude and much appreciation to the First Baptist Church family and, also, to Emerald Coast Hospice Care. Services will be held at First Baptist Church, 500 N. Palafox Street, Pensacola, on July 10, 2021, at 11 a.m. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church Samaritan Hands Ministry or to Martha's Vineyard Ministry.