Roger Franklin Hladky, of Memphis, TN and formerly Tabernacle, NJ went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 28, 2023. He was 80 years old. Though born in Ripley, TN, he spent all of his adult life in New Jersey.
His legacy and passion was working with kids. He taught 5th grade and 7th grade and later became a principal at Olson Middle School in Tabernacle. He also derived great joy by serving as the middle school’s girls basketball coach. His life’s work, his ministry, and his mission centered around “his kids.” Actually, any kids he met soon became “his kids.” He loved them, encouraged them, affirmed them, and nurtured the best in them.
He was blessed to be the Youth Minister at the Tabernacle Church of Christ for more than 50 years. “His kids” are scattered all over the country continuing his legacy of service to the Lord. He also was privileged to direct Senior High II week at Camp Manatawny in Douglassville, PA. It was a delight for him to spend a week each summer with 100 high school juniors and seniors.
Roger was married to Carolyn Welch Hladky for 61 years. He was the father of Holly Hladky Pruitt, Father-in-Law of Steven Pruitt, and the grandfather of Madison Pruitt and Savannah Pruitt. His family was an anchor of love that buoyed and strengthened him.
He served as an elder at the Church of Christ in Tabernacle for many years. His faith and his church family were vital in his life.
A visitation for Roger will be held on Friday, February 10, 2023 from 6:00 until 8:00 PM, at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38119. A second visitation will occur on Saturday, February 11 from 9:00 AM until the funeral service at 10:00 AM, at the funeral home. The graveside committal service will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38119. There will be a reception immediately follow services, also at the Memphis Funeral Home.
The richness of relationships and precious memories were profound blessings. “He fought a good fight and he finished strong the course God laid out for his life.”
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Church of Christ in Tabernacle, NJ or to Camp Manatawny in Douglassville, PA.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MemphisFuneralPoplar.com for the Hladky family.
