Roger Lynn Gossett

Roger Lynn Gossett was born on June 24, 1955, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, the second child of R.L. and Hazel (Francis) Gossett. He was welcomed into the family by his parents and his older sister, Cynthia.

Roger is preceded in death by his parents, R.L. and Hazel Gossett; his maternal grandparents, Dewey and Ethel Francis; his paternal grandparents, Clifton and Mattie Gossett; his aunt, Evelyn Mann; and his uncle, Bill Gossett, and his wife, Jane, of Plainview, Arkansas.

He is survived by his daughter, Randalynn Zenner (Gregory); his sons, Greg Gossett and Grant Gossett (Christina), all of Houston, Texas; his beloved granddaughters, Avery and Brooklyn Zenner; his sister, Cynthia Rickman (Oscar) of Richland, Washington; and his cousins, Dixie Gossett Hood (Bobby) and William H. “Butch” Gossett (Donna) of Plainview, Arkansas.

Roger’s early life was marked by both joy and hardship. At the age of fourteen, he experienced the profound loss of both his father and grandfather. His mother, affectionately known as “Miss Hazel,” worked tirelessly as a single parent—often holding two jobs—to provide as stable and normal a childhood as possible. Roger attended Lakeside Schools in Hot Springs, where he excelled in athletics and formed lifelong friendships. His close-knit group—Buster Gilliam, Kenny Newsom, and Kenny Eller—remained steadfast companions through every season of life. The Simpson brothers—Richard, Stephen, Bruce, and Tracy—were also constant sources of support, with Bruce becoming a true brother and best friend, especially in Roger’s later years.

Roger’s first job as a bellman at The Hill Wheatley Hotel in downtown Hot Springs introduced him to the value of hard work and exceptional customer service—principles that would guide him throughout his life. He went on to attend Central Arkansas University, earning a major in Education and a minor in Special Education. During his college years, he was an active member of Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity and remained engaged as an alumnus. Later, he furthered his education by earning an Executive MBA from the University of Houston.

After graduating, Roger began his professional life as a football coach at Sheridan High School, where he served as defensive coordinator. His dedication to the sport was unmatched—he spent countless nights studying game film, often sleeping on the couch in the coaches’ office. Even when watching football on television, he kept a notebook nearby, meticulously recording each play. These same skills resurfaced later in life as he reviewed catches, goals scored, and karate kicks with each of his children.

A pivotal summer job in Richland, Washington, changed the course of Roger’s life in two profound ways. It was there that he met and married Cindy Holt, beginning the Gossett family he cherished above all else. Together they welcomed their children—Randalynn, Greg, and Grant—whom he loved deeply. His granddaughters, Avery and Brooklyn Zenner, later became his greatest joy, affectionately known to him as his “little fireflies.”

That same summer also introduced Roger to the construction industry. After a few seasons of hard, hands‑on work—and a few paychecks that far outpaced a teacher’s salary—Roger realized with characteristic candor that he could make more money building things than he ever could teaching about them. What began as a practical decision quickly grew into a lifelong passion. Over more than forty years in the energy construction business, he rose from an entry‑level tradesman to chief executive roles in several major contracting corporations. His work ethic, commitment to excellence, and determination to provide for his family defined his professional journey. He devoted himself to supporting each child in their athletic and academic pursuits.

In his final years, Roger found renewed happiness with his fiancée, Arlene. Together they enjoyed traveling, dancing, and caring for his treasured granddaughters. During this time, he also began studying the Bible, seeking clarity and comfort in God’s Word. His family and friends take solace in the hope expressed at Acts 24:15: “And I have hope toward God… that there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.”

A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.