Gene Houston Rogers

A memorial service celebrating the life of Gene Houston Rogers will be held on Sunday, July 12,2026, at 5:30 p.m. at Valley Baptist Tabernacle, 1600 North Double B Street, Palmer, Alaska with Pastors Jason Perry, Ben Poelman, and James Pranger officiating. A meal with Gene’s favorite dinner and time of fellowship will follow the service. Burial will take place the following day at Fort Richardson National Cemetery.

Gene Houston Rogers, of Palmer, Alaska, entered into eternal life on June 19, 2026, at the home of his daughter, Deena Perry. He was 88 years old.

Gene was born on August 31, 1937, in Saint Elmo, a suburb of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Duringhis childhood, his family moved first to Red Bank and later to Tiftonia, Tennessee, where Gene settled and spent most of his life.

Gene worked for many years at Colonial Bakery in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Upon retirement, he embraced one of his greatest passions—motorcycles. He treasured the freedom of the open road and created many lasting memories riding with friends throughout the years. Even after his health prevented him from riding his own motorcycle, he never lost his love for the experience and was always happy to ride along whenever someone offered.

As the years passed and Gene required additional care, he moved to Roswell, New Mexico, to be closer to his daughter and grandchildren. He initially resided in an assisted living facility before moving into his daughter's home. There he enjoyed listening to bluegrass music, soaking up the warm New Mexico sunshine, and spending time visiting with neighbors and friends. In 2023, when his daughter and family relocated to Palmer, Alaska, Gene made the journey north with them.

Although he quickly fell in love with Alaska's breathtaking beauty, Gene never quite adjusted to the cold. Church friends often smiled at the sight of him bundled up in thermal underwear, two pairs of pants, two shirts, a sweater, a heavy coat, mittens, and a hat—even during the summer months. While he could be famously grumpy about the weather, he deeply appreciated the friendships he formed at church and thoroughly enjoyed the food and fellowship at church events.

For much of his life, Gene carried burdens that made it difficult for him to find lasting happiness and peace. He wrestled with questions about God's love and whether forgiveness could truly be extended to him. Yet during his final years, while attending church with his daughter and her family, Gene came to understand and embrace the wonderful truth of the Gospel. Years ago, he had acknowledged that he was a sinner and placed his faith in Jesus Christ, believing that Christhad paid the penalty for his sins but it wasn’t until later in life that he was able to enjoy the peace God brings with this salvation.

As Gene's earthly journey neared its end, the man who had struggled for so long found the peace and assurance he had sought. He gained confidence that Christ had truly forgiven him and that

eternity with the Lord awaited him. In the final weeks of his life, Gene experienced a peace that had largely eluded him throughout his years. His family rejoices in the grace of God that transformed his heart and gave him hope. To God be the glory.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Willard and Clara Boydston Rogers; his son, Gene "Butch" Rogers; and his brothers, Raymond Rogers, Reece Rogers, Bill Rogers, and Cleveland Rogers.

He is survived by his daughters, Deena and Jason Perry and Shannon and John Williams; daughter-in-law Laura Rogers; his grandchildren, Jacob Perry, Gideon Perry, Joel Perry, Elijah Perry, Susie Perry, Jonah Perry, Josiah Perry, and Ethan Williams; his great-grandchildren Winnie and Archie Perry, as well as two more on the way; his brothers, Link Rogers and Don Rogers; his sister-in-law, Evelyn Rogers; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, staff, and caring individuals of Ancora Hospice for the compassion, dignity, and comfort they provided during Gene's final months. A special thank you is extended to his favorite nurse, Hillary, whose kindness and care meant so much to Gene and his family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Valley Baptist Tabernacle in Palmer, Alaska for the R.A.V.E.N Missions School.

Arrangements have been made through Cremation Society of Alaska.