Willie Don Rogers, age 82, of Ingram, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026. A devoted family man, veteran, and lifelong Texan, Don leaves behind a legacy of integrity and dedication.
Don was born in Midland, Texas, on August 19, 1943, to Willie W. and Mary Frances Rogers. After graduating from Snyder High School, he honorably served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.
After his time serving our country, he attended Angelo State University and obtained his accounting degree. This paved the way for a distinguished 37-year career with the Bridgestone and Firestone Tire & Rubber Company. As a manager of dealer accounts across Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas, he was encouraged to relocate. Don was dedicated to his work; however he chose to travel extra miles to remain in San Angelo, prioritizing family over relocation, allowing his wife to have a successful career and stability for his boys.
On July 5, 1973, Don married the love of his life, Shirley Secor Rogers and they celebrated over 51 great years together. They raised two sons, Tavis and Tally “T.J.” Rogers, in a home built on love and stability. In 1995, Don and Shirley built their dream retirement home on the Guadalupe River near Ingram, and in 2006, they fulfilled a shared passion by purchasing a ranch in Crockett County, south of Ozona. In his retirement, Don found great joy in the outdoors – spending time at the river and managing cattle and exotic wildlife at the ranch.
Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley; his parents, Willie and Frances; his sister, Dixie Rogers; and his brother, Roy Rogers.
His memory will be cherished by his surviving family: his sons, Tavis Rogers and Tally “T.J.” Rogers; his four grandchildren, Nathan, Tristan, Avery, and Trevor; and a large circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.