Ernest Ralph Rodgers Sr.
Ernest Ralph Rogers Sr., 77, died on Wednesday, September 30th, 2020 at Community Hospice in Vidalia.
Ralph grew up in Thomson and graduated from THS in 1961. He attended Berry College where he was a pitcher for the Berry College Vikins and his twin brother was the catcher. This duo created many colorful episodes for the fans.
After graduation from Berry in 1965, Ralph served honorable in the United States Air Force at Whiteman AFB, MO., We Song Bong in South Korea, and Minot AFB, N.D.
Ralph began his banking career with C & S in Albany, GA. He worked at the Bank of Worth County in Sylvester, GA and Trust Company Bank in Albany before becoming the President of Merchants and Citizens Bank in McRae, GA. Ralph treated all of his customers with respect and dignity. He loved the
M & C Bank and the people of Telfair County.
Ralph was a man of many interests. He was a skilled wood worker. All his family had to do was look in a furniture book, and he would build whatever the person wanted.
Fishing was one of his main pastimes. For years he spent every Sunday afternoon at the “swamp” where he and his buddies would fish, cook, eat, and tell tall tales. These guys meant the world to him, and he always missed these get togethers when time made it impossible to continue this pastime.
Ralph loved traveling with his wife of 55 years. Together they visited all of the lower 48 states.
The highlight of Ralph’s life the last 10 years of his life was having a camper at Shoulder Bone at Lake Sinclair. He made such endearing friends there. Going out to eat, traveling to local haunts, and just sitting on the deck with friends made his life so full.
However, the one thing he loved more than anything was the three grandchildren. Rec Ball, middle school ball, and high school sports filled his life and made him so proud. Ralph was able to attend two high school football games this year. Watching Jonathan play and Olivia cheer for the TCHS Trojans. While Jarrod was in high school, Ralph probably did not miss any football games.
Ralph was a true gentleman. He loved deeply and was an honest man of great integrity. He was a great role model for his children and grandchildren.
Ralph was a member of First Baptist Church of McRae, where he taught the Men’s Sunday School Class and sang in the choir for over 20 years.
Ralph was preceded in death by his daughter, Renee Rodgers; his parents, Ernest and Evelyn Rodgers;
twin brother, Frank Rodgers; and another brother, Charles Rodgers.
He is survived by his wife, Susan Wise Rodgers; son, Ernie (Michelle) Rodgers; grandchildren, Jarrod Rogers, Olivia Rodgers and Jonathan Rodgers; brothers, John Rodgers of Harlem and Jeff Rodgers of Wrens. Several nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.
All services will be private.
Please express your online condolences at lowesfuneralhome.net
Lowe’s Funeral Home of Helena is in charge of the arrangements.