Roy Rodgers III

Roy Richard Rogers III was born on April 23, 1959, in Ullin, Illinois, to Glodean Earnestine Rogers and Roy Richard Rogers Jr., both of whom preceded him in death. In the fall of 1959, Roy’s family relocated to Chicago, where he would spend his childhood and the years that shaped his character and future.

Roy was lovingly raised by his mother and his stepfather, Tanny Suttles Jackson, Sr. (deceased), who played a significant and steady role in his life. He received his early education at Our Lady of Hungary Catholic School and later attended Chicago Vocational High School (CVS). Determined and focused, Roy continued his studies at Western Illinois University in Macomb, Illinois, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement.

Roy excelled as an athlete, a passion that followed him from grammar school through his college years. He was an exceptional baseball player, known for his powerful swing. When Roy stepped up to the plate, it was not unusual to hear the opposing coach shout to the outfield, “Get back, get back—Roy can knock the hell out of the ball!” Roy also made his mark on the football field. During his time at CVS, he earned the affectionate nickname “Cowboy,” a reflection of both his spirit and his presence. He proudly contributed to the school’s Public League City Championship football team, playing a key role throughout all four years.

Roy’s work history reflected the steady, hardworking spirit that defined him. After graduating from college, he held a variety of positions that showcased both his reliability and his willingness to lend his hands wherever they were needed. He spent time at Sonicraft Company on the South Side of Chicago and later served his community as a mail carrier with the U.S. Postal Service. Roy also worked in construction, bringing the same dedication, strength, and quiet determination that he carried into everything he did. Roy worked faithfully as a custodian engineer in an elementary school setting until his illness prevented him from continuing. He took great pride in his work and cared deeply about keeping the buildings running smoothly and safe for the children who filled them each day.

Roy had a way of brightening any room he walked into. His humor came naturally—softening heavy moments, lifting spirits, and making people feel at ease. But beneath that easy laughter was a deep, steady strength. He cared fiercely for his family and friends, protecting them with a loyalty that never wavered.

Roy accepted Christ into his life during his college years, opening his heart to the transforming grace of salvation. Later in life, he rededicated himself to the Lord, seeking a more intimate experience of the Holy Spirit’s presence, guiding, comforting, and strengthening him.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved siblings: Minister Steven L. Jackson (Renee), Tanny S. Jackson, Jr. (Renee), and Tracee R. Jackson. He is remembered with love by his nieces and nephews: Stefanie (Lawrence), Steven Jr., Melissa, Monique, Tracy (deceased), Sylvia, Tanny III (deceased), and Trevon. He is further survived by his uncle Charles Rogers of Baltimore, Maryland, and his aunt Mildred Skinner (Charlie) of Chicago, Illinois. Roy’s life was enriched by special friends: Bridgette (“Sweet T”), Clifford Ford, Derrick Ford, and Larry Collier. Beyond them, he leaves a host of other relatives and friends whose lives were touched by his humor, courage, faith, and unwavering love.

Please consider donating to the GoFundMe for Roy. https://gofund.me/f97d117c0