Nelson Lamar Rodgers, 86, formerly of Lake Charles, passed away on Monday, January 8, 2024, in a Hattiesburg, MS, hospital.
Mr. Rodgers was a native of Crandall, MS, where he was raised, educated, and graduated from Carmichael High School. Following graduation, he served the United States Army National Guard. He later moved to Houston and worked for National Supply Company Oilfield Services. During this time, he met Miss Joyce Fontenot, and it was love at first sight and he knew then he would marry her. In 1962, they married and moved to Lake Charles. Mr. Rodgers began managing Donut King for his brother-in-law. This began his career in the industry, as in 1968 he built and began Nelson’s Donuts, a household name, well-known in the Southwest Louisiana community for serving countless many throughout the years. He was the owner of Nelson’s until he made the decision to sell the shop to a later generation family member in 2020.
Mr. Rodgers was a strong man of faith and an active member of First Christian Church and Community Christian Church. His belief in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior were the foundation of his life.
He leaves to honor his memory two sons, Eddie Lamar Rodgers and wife Lis of Melissa, TX, and Kevin Lamar Rodgers of Lake Charles; eight grandchildren; his brother, Jimmy Rodgers; his sister, Carolyn Riggs and husband John who he thought of as another brother; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his much-loved wife, Joyce Fontenot Rodgers, and two sisters and five brothers.
Funeral services for Mr. Rodgers were at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 20, 2024, in the Chapel of Johnson Funeral Home of Lake Charles. Reverend David Veillon officiated. Visitation Saturday was from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.
Interment services at Black Bayou Cemetery were private.
Submitted by Family
