Douglas D. Rogers, age 62

Douglas D. Rogers, age 62, of Austin, AR died on June 19, 2024, after a difficult battle with cancer. Doug was born October 6, 1961, in Saginaw, Michigan to William and Barbara Rogers of Chesaning, Michigan. He is the brother of Pam (Seth) Rippee, Daniel Rogers, and John (Yvette) Rogers and the uncle to many nieces and nephews. Doug is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Carmen (née McCarry) Rogers and his sons, Shane M. Rogers and David L. Rogers. His grandchildren Kaitlyn, Allen, Shane, McKayla, and Camden, and his great-grandchildren Fletcher and Weston will miss their grandpa each day.

As a young boy, Doug loved to hunt and fish from his family’s farm to the Great Lakes; he was a true sportsman. Doug was an animal lover at heart. He had many family dogs, horses, and goats. In his later years, Doug became an avid beekeeper. In his spare time, he enjoyed bowling, golfing, and woodworking.

Doug’s dedication and leadership were exemplary throughout his 24-year service to the United States Air Force. He achieved the rank of Master Sergeant. Throughout his military service, Doug worked around the world, providing expertise and leadership to the Logistics Readiness Squadron for Petroleum Oil and Lubricants Flight. Doug was a great educator of his troops. His colleague Retired Master Sergeant Brian Muck said, “Doug was known as ‘the professor’ for his knowledge of just about everything. He was always willing to help a friend at any time, whether it was fixing a car, running phone lines in an old house, or replacing a broken sliding door when a friend had an ACL replacement.” He served as an instructor at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO. Retired Master Sergeant Tammie Black said, “Doug was everybody’s friend. He always had a smile on his face, and he was willing to pitch in and help no matter what the task. Doug was a true leader. He may not have realized the impact of his gentle approach and its effect on most.” Doug retired from the United States Air Force in August 2007. He was admired for his expertise, patience, and kindness.

In October 2007 Doug started a new chapter of his career with Advanced Fluid Technologies as a technician. He was promoted through many positions to Operations Manager. He was instrumental in growing the company with his knowledge and leadership. Through his 17 years of dedicated service, he used his instructional knowledge and expertise to make a mark on many people with the organization and its customers both locally and nationally.

Doug never met a stranger. He coached Little League Baseball at Little Rock Air Force Base for many years. He also played softball, and he was well-known to hit the ball over the fence. He could play any position, but he was one of the better pitchers in any league. Carmen had to inform Doug that it was time for him to retire from softball because he was too old to continue playing. Doug made an impact on many young people’s lives with his guidance and encouragement through helping them believe in themselves. The world will be a poorer place without his kind smile and thoughtful words.

Master Sergeant Douglas Rogers will be laid to rest on Monday, August 5, 2024. His family welcomes friends for a celebration of life at 9:30am with service starting at 10:00am at A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville. Graveside will follow at Arkansas Veterans Cemetery at 11:00am.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com