Rodgers, John

Brice Herndon Funeral Chapels and Crematory

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Mr. John Hamilton Rodgers, Jr., 56, of Ruffin, entered into rest Monday evening, October 14, 2024, at his residence. Born February 24, 1968, in Walterboro, South Carolina, he was a son of Mrs. Ruby Dopson Tillman and the late Mr. John Hamilton “Johnny” Rodgers, Sr.   Following his graduation from the former John C. Calhoun Academy in Walterboro, (known now as Colleton Preparatory Academy) and his formal education at Newberry College, John excelled as a culinary genius to say the least.   While in high school, he lettered in tennis and was the youngest member of the academy’s marching band.  He also had served as student body President at Newberry.  He began his catering and event planning business, “Events by John Rodgers” which quickly became a well-known culinary enterprise in the Lowcountry of South Carolina.  He worked in Walterboro, Charleston, and Columbia; Atlanta, Georgia, and Nashville, Tennessee; and formerly managed the Dogwood Hills Country Club.    In the latter part of his life, he began attending Refuge Church in Walterboro.  He will be remembered for countless things during his life, most notably his love for a well-versed life of cultural arts, music, and travel.  He enjoyed being at the beach or by the pool and was always apt to host friends for casual and impromptu gatherings. Surviving are: his mother, Ruby and her husband Manny of Ruffin; his sister, Lesi Rodgers Sons and her husband Ralph of Walterboro; two nieces, Jennings Danyel Chapman and Whitney Denane Chapman; two aunts, Nancy Hetrick and her husband John “Bo” and Gloria Warren and her husband Joey; and an uncle, Tommie Dopson and his wife Vicky.  He is also survived by his constant K9 companion and best friend, “Bella” along with a host of cousins and friends.    The family has requested that memorials be directed in his memory to: Refuge Church Building Fund, 203 Eddie Chasteen Drive, Walterboro, South Carolina 29488. A celebration of John’s life was held at 3 o’clock Friday afternoon, October 18, 2024, from The Brice W. Herndon and Sons Funeral Chapel, Walterboro.  The Reverend Craig Crosby officiated.    A private family burial was held at Live Oak Cemetery in Walterboro.   Arrangements by:  The Brice W. Herndon And Sons Funeral Homes And Crematory, Walterboro Chapel, 1193 Bells Highway, Walterboro, 843.538.5408.  Visit the registry online at: www.briceherndonfuneralhome.com.