WORCESTER-James R. Rodgers, 70, of Worcester, died August 19th in UMass-Memorial Hospital, University Campus. He is survived by his brother, Donald Rodgers of N. Brookfield; three sisters, Joan Lavoie of Shrewsbury. Carol, and her husband, Wally Sullivan of Worcester and Mary, wife of John Hoogasian of Spencer; many nephews, nieces, grand nephews and grand nieces who were all an important part of his life. Four brothers, Richard and Leo Mantha, David Rodgers and Jackie Radzik predeceased him
He was born in Webster the son of Alphonse and Ethel (Crandall) Rodgers. Mr. Rodgers was a Horace Mann Scholar and graduated from the former High School of Commerce; and served in the Army during the Vietnam Conflict. He started his career as an accountant with Worcester County National Bank, continued with its predecessor Shawmut Bank and later worked part-time after his retirement with Sovereign Bank. Mr. Rodgers was active with WCNB’s 25 Year Club and had served as its treasurer. Jim’s co-workers remember him for his ability in keeping everyone happy and his uniqueness. His passions included reading, Jeopardy and crossword puzzles; and he was an avid Boston Red Sox and Patriots fan. Mr. Rodgers was a member of St. Peter’s Church and also served as a Eucharistic Minister and CCD teacher. He was a loving brother, uncle, godfather and friend.
The funeral is Saturday, August 22nd from O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue with a Mass at Noon in St. Peter’s Church, 929 Main Street. Burial will be private. Calling hours are from 10:00 until 11:30 a.m., the day of the funeral in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38103 or the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701.