Howard Neal Rogers

Neal was born December 30, 1937 in Hornersville, Mo., to Lois (Prestridge) and J.P. Rogers. He is survived by four sisters, Ann (Jim) Dearing, Shirley Cummings, Pat (Jack) Matthews and Kathi Rogers. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Hobart Rogers and Jimmy Rogers; and a brother-in-law, Melton Cummings.

He enlisted in the United States Army in 1956 where he served four years of active duty and four years in the Army Reserves. He married Mary Imogene “Mary Lou” Higdon on November 7, 1960 in Zion, Ill. She survives. The couple welcomed four children, Donna (Rick) Walk, Teresa (David) Stewart, Carol (Bill) Ritchie and Phillip (Jordon) Rogers. They survive.

Neal worked in skilled trades for General Motors for 27 years before retiring in 1993.

He was a proud grandpa to seven grandchildren, Shea (Eric) Fink, Jennifer (Jake) Burton, Matthew Stewart, Jessica Ritchie, Alex (Alysa) Reel, Caleb Ritchie and Alec Ritchie, as well as seven great grandchildren. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

Neal enjoyed much of his retirement working on his farm in Ogilville, Ind. He had an affinity for antiques and treasures and spent many hours at sales and auctions looking for just the right items. He and Imogene played many hands of Euchre and Golf card games with friends and family. Neal was a member of Second Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. His family will remember him for his quick wit and hilarious stories.

A celebration of life is planned for September 9 at 3:30 p.m. at Second Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, Franklin, Ind., with Pastor Dan McCollough presiding. Family and friends may call that day, 1-3 p.m. at the church.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Second Mount Pleasant Baptist Church at 1540 N. 800 E., Franklin; or to the American Cancer Society at http://www.cancer.org.

Arrangements under the direction of Family Funeral Care-Rockville West, Indianapolis, IN.