William Brackenridge "Bill" Rogers

William Brackenridge “Bill” Rogers, age 86, went home to be with Jesus on March 13, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 8, 1939 in Macon County, Bill was the only son among four sisters born to John and Helen Rogers, a role he carried with pride and affection throughout his life. Bill graduated from Brevard High School in 1958 and then faithfully served his country in the United States Navy for two years. It was an experience that shaped his strong sense of duty, discipline, and love of country.

Following his military service, Bill built a long and dedicated career at Ecusta, where he worked for 40 years. He was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and the respect he earned from coworkers and friends alike. He also found great joy in the outdoors. Bill loved hunting and fishing, cherishing the peace of the woods and water, and the time spent sharing those moments with family and friends. Bill was also a member of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. His Patriot ancestor was Hugh Rogers.

More than any title or accomplishment, Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son in law and family man. He shared 61 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Velma. Together they built a home filled with faith and steady guidance. He was a proud father to his two sons, Brack and Mark, and a steady example of strength, humility, and unwavering love. He loved his two granddaughters so much, Ella and Hannah. They brought a joy and blessing to his life he enjoyed for many years. He was so proud of the young ladies they have become.

His faith was the foundation of his life. He loved his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and faithfully served in his church for six decades. Whether through quiet acts of service, leadership as a deacon, or simply showing up whenever needed, he lived his faith daily and left a lasting impact on his church family and community. His life was a testament to commitment—to God, to his country, to his work, and most of all to those he loved.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, John and Helen Rogers, his beloved wife, Velma and one sister Ann Rogers Owen. He is survived by his sons, Brack Rogers, wife Donna and daughter Hannah and Mark Rogers, wife Tana and daughter Ella; his sisters Frances Rogers Jones, Ruby Rogers Sprouse and Pat Rogers Hooper and husband Grady; and many extended family members, nieces and nephews and friends who were blessed by his life. Being the only boy with four wonderful sisters brought him a lifetime of being “big brother” and he loved every minute of it.

A service to celebrate Bill’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at Etowah Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Blue Ridge Garden of Memory in Pisgah Forest. The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm, one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Four Seasons Hospice.

Bill will be deeply missed and forever loved.