Lawrence Rodgers

Lawrence Edward Rodgers, 74, entered into eternal rest while surrounded by family March 1, 2016.

Lawrence was born April 25, 1941, in Sikeston, Missouri, to Ola Mae and Lawrence Freeman Rodgers. He married the love of his life, Phyllis Menees, on Oct. 25, 1961, who survives of the home.

Lawrence was a decorated truck driver with multiple safety awards. He retired from the Teamsters Union after 30 years of service May 15, 1996. After his retirement, Lawrence and Phyllis enjoyed golfing, traveling, playing pool, karaoke and spending time with family and friends.

Never meeting a stranger, Lawrence was known for his wonderful sense of humor and quick wit. He was always there to lend a helping hand when needed. He was a beloved husband, father and papa who will be terribly missed.

Through their union, Lawrence and Phyllis had three children, Kathy Gold of Fenton, Missouri, Karen (Ken) Hyslip of Willard, Missouri, and Kevin (Lisa) Rodgers of O’Fallon, Missouri; and longtime son-in-law Steve Gold of Imperial, Missouri. They were blessed with five grandchildren, Lacey Gold of Imperial, Melissa (Craig) Millington of Willard, Taylor Rodgers, serving in the U.S. Navy and stationed in Japan, Madisyn Rodgers of Springfield, Illinois, and Eryn Rodgers of Leroy, Illinois.

Lawrence was very much looking forward to the birth of his first great-granddaughter, Rylie Millington.

Lawrence is survived by nine brothers and four sisters, Freida Sheible of Evansville, Illinois, Henry (Tina) Rodgers of East Cape Girardeau, Illinois, Joyce (Joe) Bearden of Avery, Texas, Dewey (Sandy) Rodgers of Kimmswick, Missouri, Gary (Joyce) Rodgers of Olive Branch, Illinois, Arthur (Shirley) Rodgers of Olive Branch, JoAnn (Tony) Sissom of Olive Branch, Louis (Phyllis) Rodgers of Olive Branch, Michael Rodgers of Jackson, Ronnie Rodgers of Nauvoo, Alabama, Lawrence Freeman Rodgers Jr. of Cape Girardeau, Steve (Lisa) Essex of Olive Branch and Lisa Rodgers of Mounds, Illinois; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, William Rodgers and Donnie Essex; and one sister, Susan Essex.

Many thanks to Mercy Hospice for the excellent compassion and support as the family cared for Lawrence during his final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Lawrence’s name to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, www.pcf.org.

There will be a celebration of life from 1 to 4 p.m. March 19 at the William Community Center, 222 W. Jackson St. in Willard.

Walnut Lawn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.