Joseph Andrew Rogers, affectionately known as Andy, passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at Chesapeake Regional Healthcare. Born on August 13, 1965, to Roland and Maxine Rogers, Andy was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.
Andy is survived by his devoted wife, Kristi Lilley Rogers, and his two sons, Hunter (Corey) and Jordan. His greatest joys were his grandchildren, Miller Andrew, his namesake, and Vivian James, who lovingly called him Grandy. Andy’s family was his pride and joy, and his love for them knew no bounds.
Preceded in death by his parents, Roland and Maxine Rogers, his big brothers Donnie and Stevie, his nephew Kyle, and his beloved Aunt Dot, who he loved like a second mother.
Andy leaves behind a close-knit family that he loved so very much. He was the cherished baby brother to his surviving siblings, Melinda Whitehurst (Donnie), Judy Batts (Bebo), Susie Bullock (Keith), Ken Rogers (Kathy), Jeff Rogers, Micheal Rogers and beloved big brother to Amy Mohn (Mike). Andy was also a treasured uncle to numerous nieces and nephews.
Andy proudly served in the US Navy, where he traveled the world and formed lasting memories. After his military service, he worked for many years at Weyerhaeuser and spent the last 15 years working with the National Park Service, a role he embraced with dedication and passion. His coworkers became his brothers and sisters.
Andy never knew a stranger, whether a person or a dog. He loved any sport and could be found watching them non-stop. A friend to all, Andy was always ready to lend a helping hand. His by-line was “what can I help you with?” He could do anything you asked for or needed. He stood up for those who were mistreated and was known for his kindness and generosity. He had a knack for finding great deals and loved to bargain, often helping others find what they needed or get rid of what they didn’t.
Andy enjoyed traveling with Kristi, always planning fun trips to celebrate their anniversary. They celebrated 21 years of a wonderful, loving marriage on May 3rd of this year. They were married at the beach in Kill Devil Hills and made a home there for the last 12 years in the place they both loved.
To his wife’s friends and family, as well as the women in the neighborhood, he was affectionately referred to as a “part-time” husband, always available to light a furnace, move a couch, or change a tire. Kristi’s large extended family loved him like their own for his jovial nature and his willingness to pitch in doing whatever needed doing at family events.
Andy was a true fan of NC State Basketball, proudly holding onto memories from their 1983 Championship and continuing to cheer them on through the good years and the bad. He spent many years trying to convert family members to the Wolfpack.
He had a huge heart; everyone who knew him loved him. If Andy decided to love you, he just loved you. He filled the father role for many people through the years and was a son to many. His friends were like brothers, and were loved unconditionally.
His network of family, friends, and neighbors was unparalleled, and he was known for his easy laugh and fun jokes, especially to his grandchildren. Andy’s legacy of kindness, love, and laughter will be cherished by all who knew him.
As an organ donor, Andy’s beautiful blue eyes will live on in a young boy, who may now be able to see the world the way Andy did. The family is devastated and heartbroken by this loss.
We don’t know how we will go on without our Andy but we know we must. He would be ashamed of us if we didn’t keep his legacy alive by continuing to live and love. He will forever be missed and our lives will never be the same again.
To honor his memory, always be kind to others and love people as Andy did, openly and completely unafraid.
Andy’s memorial service will be held at 1pm on Friday, July 19, 2024 at Bethany Church of Wanchese. A private inurnment with military honors will be held at a later date. Please share a word of hope with the family at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.
