Ronald Eugene Rodgers

Ronald Eugene Rodgers was born in Gary, Indiana on March 3, 1948 to Kenneth and Delores Rodgers. While his father was serving in the Korean War, Ron was raised under the loving care of his paternal grandparents Inez and Pelmer "Robert" Robinson, who cared for him as their own and imbued him with a work ethic that lasted throughout his life. He began working to support his family as a paperboy while still a child and excelled in school. Ron attended Roosevelt High School in Gary, Indiana, where he discovered his passion for acting under the tutelage of Ms. Gray (an acting teacher who taught Avery Brooks of Star Trek fame). Ron also excelled at music, studying the cornet. He developed an ear for music and orchestration that he relished for the rest of his adult life. Ron attended Indiana State University until he was drafted into the Vietnam War. Ron served his country as a sergeant in the United States Air Force; where he specialized in Emergency Preparedness and Crowd Management. He would later utilize these skills upon his honorable discharge in 1972 to pursue a career in private security, initially with Pinkerton Security Services.

Ron served as a Director of Security at the Leo Burnett Building, where he supervised staff and managed operations for the 50-story commercial property in Chicago's financial district for over 25 years. While there, he furthered his education by attaining certification from the Department of Homeland Security Anti-Terrorism Awareness and Protection Training. Ron cared deeply about the team he led, mentored many of the young people under his influence, and maintained relationships with many of his team after his retirement.

Ronald met Joyce “Peaches” Faison in October of 1981 when their mutual friend Judy Narcissé introduced them, thinking they would be a good match. Ron had longed to be a singer in the style of classic doo-wop singers of his childhood but never entirely developed the talent. He came to see Joyce perform at her birthday concert in December of 1981 and instantly decided that having her in his life would be “close enough.” This past year, they celebrated 43 years together.

Ron had one son, Elan, who preceded him in death, and raised one stepson with Joyce, Ryan Priester. Ron was also godfather to Dale Arthur Chube. The couple were also parents to three loving dogs – Francis, Bebop, and Kobe, all of whom adored Ron.

Ron was known as a loyal and dedicated friend. Among his lifelong friends are Judy Narcissé as well as Ben and Ruth Brown. Additionally Ron, mentored members of his work team with whom he maintained a special avuncular relationship: Sherise and Frances.

Ron will always be remembered for his dry wit, humor, honesty, strength of character, and trademark cool demeanor. Among his favorite phrases was "Do it, don't talk about it." We are eternally grateful for his contribution to our lives and our families.

Ron was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, his son Elan, and his brother Roell Rea. His memory will continue to be cherished by his immediate family, Joyce, Ryan, & Dorothy; his siblings Derek Rea, Kim Bandy, Karen Parks, Korliss Parks and Shelia Rea (Roell); and his beloved sister-cousin Claire Lynn Chube; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.