Virgil Lee Rodgers, known affectionately as Rodgers, passed away on July 21, 2024, in Portsmouth, Virginia, at the age of 70. Born on January 11, 1954, in Norfolk, Virginia, he was the son of the late Rudolph R. Rodgers Sr. and Muriel E. Woodis Rodgers.

Rodgers was a self-employed carpenter, known for his remarkable skill in building, designing, and wood carving. He attended trade school at the campus of Norfolk State University, which laid the foundation for his successful career. Throughout his life, Rodgers was admired for his hardworking, kind-hearted, and caring nature. He lived by his own standards, making his own rules, and took risks with the philosophy, “I played the cards I was dealt.”

He is survived by his daughter, Kesah Jackson, and grandson, Derek Jackson, both of Greensboro, NC. He also leaves behind his siblings, Michael J. Rodgers of Portsmouth, VA, Charlene M. Shields, and Debra Brooks (Thomas) of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, along with a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Special acknowledgment is given to Jevon Remon Barner Sr., a close and loyal friend who stood by Rodgers through thick and thin.

Rodgers was preceded in death by his siblings: Veronica M. Bunch,  Shelia D. Rodgers, Reginal N. Rodgers, and Rudolph G. Rodgers, Jr., as well as his grandparents Vashti B. Cartwright, Ralph Rodgers, Willie M. Woodis, and Elvina M. Woodis.

Though Rodgers did not have a church home, he maintained a personal faith in God, which guided him throughout his life.

Memorial services for Rodgers are pending and will be announced at a later date.  Cremation Society of Virginia in Chesapeake, Va, is assisting the family with arrangements.