Johnny F Rogers

Johnny F. Rogers, affectionately known as "Coach," passed away leaving behind a legacy of dedication, mentorship, and love. Born September 17, 1955, in Ashford, Alabama, he was the beloved son of the late Willie F., Sanders and Edna Ruthell Rogers.

Johnny was a proud graduate of Ashford High School and went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree in Physical Education with a minor in Mathematics from Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Alabama. He began his impactful career in 1979 as a Physical Education instructor and basketball coach at Ashford Annex. His passion for education and athletics guided his professional journey through Ashford High School and Chattahoochee High School in Chattahoochee, Florida.

In 1996, Johnny relocated to West Palm Beach, Florida, where he continued to influence young lives within the Palm Beach COunty School District. He served in multiple roles-including Dean, Athletic Director, and Head Basketball Coach-at Roosevelt Community MIddle School. In 2005, he became Head Athletic Director at Suncoast Community high School in Riviera Beach, FL, also coaching Girls' Flag Football and Boys' Basketball, and teaching Physical Education. Although he officially retired from the School District in 2023, his passion brought him back to Suncoast as a substitute teacher in August 2024, where he remained until his passing. Johnny was a member of the Army/National Guard Army Reserve and served 11 years. He was honorably discharged on July 23, 1997. Johnny was a member of the East Coast Umpire Association for over a decade and a proud lifetime member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. He was also a faithful and devoted member of Mt. Zion Primitive Baptist Church in West Palm Beach, where his presence and service were deeply valued.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Tony Sanders and Belinda Howard.

Johnny leaves behind the love of his life of 38 years, Karen; three loving daughters: Marsheena Rogers, Shandelyn Handford (Derry), and Sharquita Jackson; and five cherished grandchildren: Rylen Price, Demarien "D. J." Handford, Xavier Handford, Aiden Handford, and Deja Handford. One godson, Daniel McCray.

He is also survived by his devoted brothers: Ray Rogers (Linda), Chris Rogers (Paula), Bill Rogers, and Curtis Grubbs; and a host of special nieces and nephews: Martez Rogers, Derek Rogers, Tynika Rogers, Shequita Holt, Christina Rogers, Crisshada Rogers, Grady Howard, and Nick Howard. Special Brothers - Cecil Jackson (Ava), Jarvis Jackson (Erica). Johnny's life was also blessed by the unwavering friendship of: Mr. Wayne Allen, Mr. Henry Bezler, Mrs. G. Mayes, Mrs. V.V. Smith, and Mrs. Loretta Barnes

He leaves a lasting impact on a host of aunts, uncles, extended family, dear friends, countless students, and colleagues who were fortunate to know his guidance, warmth, and generous spirit.