Mrs. Donzella Rogers

Donzella (Thomas) Rogers, beloved daughter of the late Willie and Mary Thomas, was born on April 22, 1937 in Clarksdale, Mississippi. She was baptized in the name of Jesus in 1949 at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, affirming her deep and lasting faith.

Donzella attended the Sherard school system, where she showed an aptitude for Home Economics. A love for learning led her to further her education at Milwaukee Area Technical College (M.A.T.C.), where she became skilled in machine shop work and proficient in computers.

In 1955, Donzella was united in marriage to John Hugh Wilson. From this union, four beautiful children were born—three precious daughters and one beloved son.

In 1960, she relocated to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she held various jobs before settling into a long and fulfilling career at Master Lock Company. She retired after 23 years of dedicated service.

Donzella and John divorced in 1969 and she went on to marry John S. Rogers, and from this union, another cherished son was born.

A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Donzella found joy and fulfillment in the company of her family. Her love, strength, and wisdom will remain an enduring legacy for all who knew her.

She was a former member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church and a faithful member of Hephatha Lutheran Church. Donzella served as a Council Member and generously volunteered her time with organizations such as Second Harvest, Repairers of the Breach, and Casa Maria.

Donzella Rogers will be remembered for her kind heart, unwavering faith, and dedication to her family and community. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Donzella leaves the following to celebrate her life:

Three daughters — Shirley White, Angela Love, and Rosalind Wilson.

One son — Terrance (Carmela) Rogers.

Twelve grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, and a daughter-in-law, Lorena Wilson.

She also leaves behind her best friend, Queenie Green, as well as several godchildren, special cousins, other relatives, and dear friends.

Donzella was preceded in death by her parents, Willie and Mary Thomas; her husband, John S. Rogers; her oldest son, Roger; her sister, Bertha; her brothers, Isaac and John; her great-grandson, Javon; and her special cousin, Bernice.

She also leaves behind fond memories of a kind stepfather, John Fulton.