Obituary for Joyce E. Rodgers

Joyce E. Rodgers passed away on October 28, 2024. She was born on March 23, 1937, in Ada, Ohio, to Homer Hawes and Juanita Sanders Hawes Dearwester. She had two sisters, Jean E Knoch and Susan M. Dearwester, and one brother, James E. Hawes. On December 13, 1957, she married James Rodgers and became a farmer’s wife and raised horses. Two of the biggest influences in her life were her grandparents, Lester and Mamie Sanders. She also dearly loved her aunts and uncles, including Lester Jr (Pat) Sanders, Robert (Nelly) Sanders. Maxine (Bill) Burkholder. and Richard (Wanda) Sanders. All preceded her in death. Those left to cherish her memory are many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Joyce graduated from Ada High School. She went to college and obtained a degree in education. She retired from teaching third grade after many years. In high school, Joyce joined the Rainbow Girls and continued into Eastern Star after graduation. She held many offices throughout the years and was a state officer.

She loved to sing and did so with her mother and sister in the 1950’s and at every family gathering, which are some of the family’s fondest memories. Now, they are singing together again in perfect three-part harmony.

She loved the Lord and served Him in many ways, including supporting missionaries, working with youth in the Word of Life Program at the church, and being an active member of her church family. We know she is resting in the Arms of Jesus now.

A graveside service will take place at Grove Cemetery on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at 1:00 pm with Pastor Dennis Burns officiating. Arrangements are being handled by SCHINDEWOLF-STOUT-CRATES FUNERAL HOME. Online condolences may be expressed at www.stoutcrates.com.