Lizzie Joann Rodgers

Joann Rodgers, age 98, left this earth for her heavenly home on June 5, 2024, in Baytown, TX with family by her side. Joann was born Lizzie Zoette Hughes and over the years she preferred to be called “JOANN” by family and friends. She was born on March 13, 1926 in Purdon, Texas to William Daniel Hughes and Martha Elizabeth Kennemore Hughes.

Joann was the matriarch of her family and had many names: mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother, and Aunt Jo.

On March 13, 1952, Joann married the love of her life, Elton Lee Rodgers, in Kilgore, Texas. After marrying, Elton and Joann lived in Kilgore, TX. Elton’s job then transferred them to Mooringsport, LA, to Bristow, OK, and finally to Baytown, in 1963, where they resided ever since. Elton had dementia during the latter years of his life, and Joann never wavered in her commitment of their vows in sickness and in health. As his caregiver, she was devoted and always by his side for their 66 years of marriage when he passed in 2018.

She was a women of timeless beauty and grace and participated in a beauty contest in Beaumont, TX. And at the age of 37, with 6 children, she was one of 3 finalist in the 1963 MRS. Oklahoma Pageant in Bristow, OK. She was also a Cub Scout leader in Bristow, OK, and participated in the PTA for her children’s local schools in Bristow and Baytown.

Joann told stories that as a child, along with her family, she would wear a sun bonnet and pick cotton in the fields of Texas. It’s hard to imagine all the inventions and changes in this world that she had seen over the last 98 years.

Joann was a member of Cedar Bayou Baptist Church, a member of the Eastern Star, and in earlier years, the Eva Maud Bridge Club. She also enjoyed attending events with the Red Hat Society. She was an avid gardener, with a passion for yard work, keeping it beautiful, and won Eva Maud “Yard of the Month” numerous times.

In her early years in Baytown, Joann worked at Town House Furniture, was owner of Joann’s Ad Specialties for 16 years, and worked at the Baytown Sun in the ad department for a short period. Later in life, she obtained her Associates Degree at Lee College, her realtor license, and a substitute teaching certificate. She read the newspaper from front to back and was always up-to-date on current events.

Joann was very active in the Baytown Community. She was a longtime member of the Baytown Chamber of Commerce, and also served on their Board of Directors, and loved attending Chamber functions and City events throughout the year.

Joann was a social butterfly and never met a stranger. She gave everyone a hug whether she knew them or not. She had an infectious smile that touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to have known her. She had many friends and acquaintances, and a love for community involvement during all her years working in the public, and volunteering in the Baytown area. Joann and Elton were both volunteers at the Shriners Hospitals, and at Methodist Hospital in Baytown.

Joann was a giving person who could also be very strong willed and somewhat stubborn at times. She had a witty and quick way about her, and wanted everyone to know she was independent, in control, in charge, and her own boss. She will be deeply missed by her family and many friends.

Joann is preceded in death by: Parents, William Daniel Hughes and Martha Kennemore Hughes; Husband, Elton Lee Rodgers; Son, Danny Boye Rodgers; Daughter, Betty Jo Dunlap; Step son, Larry Lynn Fouts; and Grandson, B. Bryant.

Joann was the 12th of 13 children in the Hughes family and was preceded by her Brothers, Anguish Hughes, John Hughes, Tommy Hughes, and Audrey Hughes; Sisters, Eunice Foster, Aileen Freeland, Elva Gladney, Anna Mae Calvery, Mary Lou McPherson, Mildred Walker, and twins, Loma Gladney and Lora Ford.

Joann is survived by her children: Margaret Lee, husband, Richard of Maryville, TN; David Rodgers, wife, Linda of Baytown; Michael Rodgers, wife, Sandee of Laredo; Kathy Rodgers Stone, husband, Gary of Longview; son-n-law, Trey Dunlap; and daughter-in-law, Carol Fouts.

She is survived by her grandchildren: Dr. Shawn Lee, wife, Wendy; Col. Kevin Lee, wife, Dee Dee; Eric Lee; Hulen Bryant, wife, Cathy; Brandon Bryant, Daniel Pantoja, wife, Tiffany; Tara Rodgers, Parker Rodgers, Sydney Rodgers, Justin Turner, wife, Amber; and Aeriel Abbott.

Joann also leaves a host of other family members including 16 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and very special friends.

Funeral Services will be held Friday, June 14, 2024, at Navarre Funeral Home, 2444 Rollingbrook Drive, Baytown, TX 77521, with Dr. Mark Broussard officiating. Visitation from 12:00 to 1:00 pm and the Funeral will follow at 1:00 pm. Her grandchildren will be honorary pallbearers. Joann will be transported to Henderson, TX for Interment at Rusk County Memorial Gardens the following morning.

The family would like to thank Dr. Greg Terry and staff, Swan Manor Assisted Living,

Faith Community Hospice, and Visiting Angels for caring for Mrs. Rodgers.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice.