With grateful hearts, we celebrate the life of William “Bill” Milton Rogers, who peacefully transitioned at the age of 87. His life was defined by faith, family, resilience, laughter, and love, and his legacy lives through the generations he leaves behind.
Bill was born on March 19, 1939, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Mattie and John C Rogers. The second youngest of nine children, he was raised on Grantwood Avenue in Cleveland, Ohio with a close-knit family where faith, hard work, discipline, and loyalty were deeply valued.
At 16 years old he graduated from Glenville High school and enlisted into the United States Army. While stationed in Germany, he met and married Rosanna. and together they welcomed their son, William M. Rogers, Jr. After his military service, he opened the restaurant Mini Pearls, a successful venture that reflected his entrepreneurial spirit. During this time, he met the love of his life, Joyce. They moved to California, married, and welcomed their son Jared R. Rogers before returning to Cleveland, where daughters Teresa and Victoria were born.
Bill built a successful career in the life insurance industry, helping families plan for the future and protect what mattered most. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was a devoted father who was always present for his children. They knew they could depend on him for guidance, support, and protection. Family was at the center of everything he did.
He also knew how to enjoy life. He loved a good card game, the excitement of the craps table, and spending time with family and friends. His stories, wisdom, and sense of humor made every gathering memorable.
On June 7, 2026, he reunited with his parents, stepfather Edward Burrs; his siblings, Lucille, John Jr., Donald, Gloria, Richard, Lawrence, Robert, and Reginald; first wife Rosanna Rogers; wife, Joyce Rogers; niece Mona.
William leaves to cherish the memory of his children, William “Billy” M. Rogers Jr.; Jared (Amy) Rogers; Teresa (Wil) Jenkins; and Victoria Rogers. He was a proud grandfather to Antonio, Shane, Reginald, Jareshaun, Reyanna, Darius, Marcus, Lawrence, Mario, Saje’, Toni, Malaya, Jared Jr, and Blessyn and a beloved great-grandfather to Rose and Sailor. He also leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.
As the last surviving sibling, William carried the memories and legacy of his family for many years. With his passing, an entire generation of the Rogers family is reunited once again.
“To know him was to respect him, to love him was a blessing, and to be loved by him was a gift.”
Visitation will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026, from 11:00 am until 12:00 noon at Sommerville Funeral Services, 1695 Diagonal Rd. Akron, Oh 44320. Funeral service will immediately follow. Internment Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.