Donald Rodgers

Donald Lee Rodgers, Sr. "Donnie" 73, of St. Petersburg, went to be with the Lord June 7, 2017 at The Hospice Care Center, Pinellas Park. Born and raised in Battle Creek, MI, he is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Bernice Rodgers. Don is survived by his wife of 14 years, Nancy Kent; six children, Don Rodgers, Jr. (Denise), Derrick Schabbel (Tristen), Timm Schabbel (Jennifer), Eric Rodgers, Jessica Silva (Enrique), and Jaynee Ortiz (roland); three stepchildren, E.W. Hagerman (Erin), Michael Hagerman, and Meredith Schniebner (Josh); and 21 grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Suzanne Simmons (Charlie) and nephews, Greg Simmons and Matthew Simmons. Donnie was a lifelong musician and began his professional musical career at 15 years old with Del Shannon in Battle Creek, MI. During his career, he performed coast to coast and across Europe with Junior Walker & The All Stars and Sarah Vaughan. He was involved with various bands, Raggs and Me & Dem Guys, which was inducted into the Michigan Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. He was also well known in the Tampa Bay Area playing with bands Streetlife and Allen & Rodgers. Throughout his musical career, he performed with many other artists playing a blend of jazz, mixed with a good dose of soul, funk, and blues. A Memorial Service will be held Friday, June 16, 3pm at Anderson-McQueen, 2201 Dr. MLK St N, St. Petersburg.