Tony Rodgers Obituary

Tony Rodgers, age 64, of Creal Springs, IL, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 7:55 a.m. surrounded by his family.

He was born on May 4, 1961, in Joliet, IL, to the late Billy Wayne and Phyllis (Bozarth) Rodgers of Marion, IL. He moved from Joliet during his middle school years with his brother, Tim Rodgers, mother, Phyllis, and step-father, Keith Pritchett to Marion, IL.

He married Kim Adams on December 8, 1979, at Fairview Baptist Church in Creal Springs, and together they shared over forty-five years of marriage.

Thirty years of his working career was spent with Southern Pride as a sheet metal fabricator until their closing in 2009. He later worked a few years for the Williamson County Highway Department, but in the most recent years, Tony was employed with the City of Creal Springs as the Superintendent of Utilities.

Tony faithfully attended Stonefort General Baptist Church. He loved the Lord with all his heart and proudly shared his faith with those around him, often speaking of the saving grace of Jesus Christ. His life was a testimony to his beliefs, and his quiet strength and conviction left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Tony found joy in the simple pleasures of life and never needed material things to be content. His favorite place to be was outdoors-hunting (especially squirrel, coon, and deer), all kinds of fishing (particularly catfishing), riding four-wheelers, or simply "roamin'," as he fondly called it. He also cherished time with his dog, often playing fetch and enjoying the companionship only a faithful pet can give. He loved westerns, particularly those starring John Wayne and Clint Eastwood, and had a deep appreciation for local history, Native American history, old cars and trucks, bluegrass music, classic rock, and classic country. He embraced the old ways of life, and those who knew him will remember him as a man of honesty, sincerity, and quiet wisdom.

Tony also lived by a strong work ethic, which he carried with him in everything he did. He led by example and believed in doing things the right way-not the easy way. He passed down life lessons and values to his family through his actions more than words, teaching them the importance of hard work, respect, responsibility, and standing by your word.

Second only to his love for the Lord was Tony's love for his family, which knew no bounds. To Tony, a perfect day was spending time together at the house with his family sharing stories about their day and things that were going on in their lives. He was a devoted husband, dad, papa, son, brother, uncle, and best friend. His presence was a source of strength and comfort, and the countless memories made together will be treasured forever by those he leaves behind.

He is survived by his loving wife, Kim Rodgers of Creal Springs, IL; daughter and son-in-law, Brandi and Josh Johns of Marion, IL; son and daughter-in-law, Josh and Erin Rodgers of Pittsburg, IL; grandchildren, Maci Johns, Kylee Rodgers, Kynslee Rodgers and Kelsee Rodgers; mother, Phyllis Pritchett of Marion; step-father, Keith Pritchett of Marion, IL; step-mother, Phyllis Rodgers of Marion, IL; brother and sister-in-law, Tim and Christie Rodgers of Tunnel Hill, IL; sister, Sheila Rodgers of Belle Rive, IL; mother-in-law, Yvonne Adams; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Keith and Kim Adams; brother-in-law, Kevin Adams; brother-in-law, J.R. Adams and fiancé, Shai Sperling; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Karen and Ron Johnson; nephews, Timmy Rodgers, Aaron McCalla and Gareth Adams; nieces, Ashley Hilliard and husband, Caleb, and Rachelle Adams; and many other extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents; father, Billy W. Rodgers; brother, Steven Rodgers; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 North Court Street, Marion, IL.

The visitation will be at Stonefort General Baptist Church, located at 30 Roosevelt Street, Stonefort, IL, on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and will resume at the church on Thursday, July 17, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.

Following the time of visitation on Thursday, the funeral service will be at the church on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Jeff Owens presiding.

Burial will follow in Zion Cemetery in Ozark, IL.

For those who prefer, memorial contributions may be directed to "Zion Cemetery." Envelopes will be available at the church during the visitation, or may be mailed c/o Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 North Court Street, Marion, IL 62959.

For those who prefer, memorial contributions may be directed to "Zion Cemetery." Envelopes will be available at the church during the visitation, or may be mailed c/o Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 North Court Street, Marion, IL 62959.

For more information, call the funeral home at 618-993-2131.