Elder Eddie Rodgers, Sr.

Eddie Rodgers Sr. was born to the union of Forest Rodgers and Lovey Pettus on December 15, 1927, in Lonoke County, Arkansas. He was number 12 of 15 children.

He heard the Word of God, one Tuesday. He was pricked in his heart and was baptized in Jesus’ name at Christ Temple Pentecostal church, under Bishop Leotis Warren. He served faithfully in many capacities of the ministry, such as Superintendent of the Sunday School, Minister of the gospel and Assistant pastor. He went on to serve as a pastor, in the city of Des Arc, Arkansas. He also served as senior Pastor at Bethel Temple Pentecostal church for nearly 40 years, until his health began to fail and he went into retirement.

Early in his career, Elder Rodgers was a trailblazer in the trucking and service industry, being one of the first African Americans to break the social norms, of his day.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, of 68 years Evangelist Dorothy L. Rodgers. He entered eternity on Friday January 16, 2026. He leaves to cherish his memory, Three Sons, Eddie Rodgers Jr., Roger E. Rodgers, and Patrick C. Rodgers (Stephanie), five daughters: Shannon Henderson, Jennifer Foster (David), Marilyn M. Rodgers, Brenda K. Rodgers and Daphne Pickens (Deon). Eighteen grandchildren, more than 15 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.