Richard Rodgers

Richard J. Rodgers, 80

Douglas - Richard J. "Dick" Rodgers, 80, of Cummings, CT died Fri. March 20 after a brief illness. He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Joan Ann (VanNess) Rodgers; 2 sons Michael J. Rodgers of Lafayette, CO and Christopher J. Rodgers of Douglas; 1 sister Jacqueline McLoughlin and her husband Peter of Stratford, CT; 4 granddaughters, Elishia, Nicole, Mariah, and Kelly Rodgers; 4 nieces and one nephew. He was predeceased by his son Richard J. Rodgers who died on April 25, 2014. Born in Providence, RI on March 28, 1934 he was the son of George and Mabel (Hogan) Rodgers and lived in Douglas the past several years.

He worked for the former Mass Electric Co. for 36 years, until his retirement in 1995. After his retirement he moved to Florida, returning to MA in 2002. He was a graduate of St. Raphael's Academy in Pawtucket, RI Class of 1952. Dick served as a Sergeant in the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict where he attained flying status and flew humanitarian missions all over the world. He returned to Whitinsville upon his discharge. He was a member of the VFW, American Legion, and Veterans Helping Veterans Assoc. He was a 3rd and 4th degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus life member, a member of the Notre Dame Club in SW Florida, and the Irish Club in SW Florida. He enjoyed cards, family and friends. He was a member of St. Denis Church.

His funeral will be held on Wed. March 25 from Jackman Funeral Home, 7 Mechanic St., Douglas with a Mass at 10 a.m. in St. Denis Church, 23 Manchaug St. Burial will follow at a later date. Calling hours at the funeral home will be held on Tues. March 24 from 5-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dick's memory may be made to St. Camillus Nursing Ctr., 447 Hill St. Whitinsville, MA 01588. To leave a condolence message for the family, please visit www.jackmanfuneralhomes.com.