James Rodgers, III

James Cleve Rodgers III, age 81, of Trussville, Alabama, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2025.

Born on May 20, 1944, in Yazoo, Mississippi, James-known to most as Jim-was a man of quiet strength, deep faith, and steady devotion to his family. He spent his early years in Jackson, Mississippi, graduating from Central High School, where he was a proud member of the ROTC drill team. He continued his education at Hinds Junior College before answering the call to serve his country.

Jim began his military service in the United States Army, serving for six months before continuing in the Army National Guard, where he served honorably for six years as a military policeman.

After fulfilling his military duties, Jim began a long and dedicated career in the heavy power equipment industry and later retired as a commercial tire salesman with McGriff Tire. Known for his honesty, work ethic, and reliability, he built lasting friendships with coworkers and clients throughout the years.

In his younger years, Jim enjoyed playing intramural softball-where he met the love of his life, Pat. The two went on to share many years together as members of a local bowling team, creating friendships and memories that would last a lifetime. A passionate sports fan, Jim loved cheering on the Auburn Tigers and the Atlanta Braves.

Jim and Pat attended Parkway Christian Fellowship for many years, where he served faithfully as the lead usher. Upon moving to Trussville, they later joined NorthPark Baptist Church, where Jim also ushered for some time. He remained a member there at the time of his passing. A faithful man, Jim's quiet and steady belief was a foundation of his life and an example to those who knew him.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Rodgers; his daughter, Denise Barnes, and son-in-law, Berry Barnes; his son, Darren Rodgers; and his cherished granddaughter, Victoria Barnes, who affectionately knew him as Pops. He is also survived by his brother, Dennis Rodgers (Melanie), and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, J.C. Rodgers Jr. and Anita Paige Rodgers, and his sister, Carolyn Slack.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens in Trussville, Alabama. The viewing will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Friends and loved ones are invited to attend and honor his memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project, two causes close to Jim's heart.

Jim will be remembered for his deep love of family, his unwavering faith, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. His legacy lives on in the lives of those he touched.