Wayne Allen Rogers

August 12, 1959 – July 24, 2025

TSGT Wayne Allen Rogers, 65, passed away on July 24, 2025, at San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital in Banning, California.

Born on August 12, 1959, Wayne dedicated much of his life to military service. He enlisted in the United States Air Force on December 14, 1976, and served honorably until his retirement on September 30, 1995. During his career, he served as a firefighter and rose to the rank of Technical Sergeant (TSGT). He was stationed with the F-117 Nighthawk during Desert Storm, worked at the highly secure Area 51 installation in the 1980s as part of classified operations, and proudly served on the Space Shuttle recovery team in Spain.

Wayne received multiple commendations during his time in the Air Force, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.

His military service took him around the world, allowing him to set foot on every continent except Australia. After retiring from the Air Force, Wayne worked at West Tech, managing emergency dispatch operations. In later years, he stepped in to care for his mother following the passing of his father.

Wayne was a loyal sports fan who especially enjoyed cheering for the Los Angeles Angels, the Anaheim Ducks, and the New Orleans Saints.

He is survived by his son, Matt Rogers, and daughter-in-law Shondra Rogers; his daughter Lisa Carroll; his grandchildren Alyce, Wyatt, and Daphne Rogers, and Bella Carroll; his brother Michael Rogers and sister-in-law Kristen Rogers; his sister Denise Anderson and brother-in-law Cory Anderson; along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Joanitta Rogers.

Wayne will be remembered for his years of military service, his discipline, and the quiet but significant roles he played throughout his life.

A memorial service with military honors will be held on:

Tuesday, August 19th at 10:30 AM

Riverside National Cemetery

22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92518

“A Hero’s Goodbye”

Author Unknown

Go rest high on that mountain,

Your work on earth is done.

Go to heaven a-shoutin’

Love for the Father and the Son.

You were a man of honor,

Courage, and of grace,

And though you’re gone before us,

You’ve left a lasting trace.