Emery Wayne Rodgers

He was born September 3, 1931 in Bemis, TN at 128 Second Street to Willis Rodgers and Annie Shindoll Rodgers. He attended schools in Bemis until he joined the U.S. Army in 1951. Upon his return from the Army, he graduated J.B. Young High School with the class of 1956. After graduation, he was employed for many years with R.E. Butts Poultry and retired from Owens Corning Fiberglass in 1987. Squirrel was known among his friends as a very talented dancer and skater. He was an avid animal lover, who was known to spend a large portion of his grocery money on stray and neighborhood animals. He leaves behind a beloved dog, Booter who was his constant companion.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother; four sisters, Martha Mae Yarbrough, Jessie Pearl Matlock, Erma Brinkley and Hazel Hilliard; one brother, Emmett Rodgers.

He is survived by one sister, Beauton Redding; daughter, Cindy Downs; 4 grandchildren; 6 great grand children. He leaves behind a multitude of nieces and nephews and also his friends at Bonwood Café where he went twice daily for coffee and fellowship.

Acknowledgement and special thanks to faithful and devoted caregivers Patty Sue Weir, niece and Hannah Wilhite, great niece.

Visitation for Mr. Rodgers will begin Monday, March 25, 2013 from 5-8 p.m.

Funeral service will be 11 a.m., Tuesday at the South Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons with Pastor Bill Luther officiating. Burial will follow in Highland Memorial Gardens.

The family is requesting memorial contributions be directed to the Jackson-Madison County Humane Society.

George A. Smith and Sons South Chapel, 731-427-5555