Billy Rodgers

Billy G. Rodgers, 83, of Columbia, Kentucky, died Friday, April 28, 2023 at 11:26 A.M. at Summit Manor Nursing Home.

He was born July 5, 1939, in Adair County, to the late Shreve and Ruby Furkin Rodgers.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Blake Burris Martin.

At the age of 19, both of Billy’s parents had died and he went to work at Lanham Flooring in Greensburg. At the age of 29, after being injured at work, he decided to pursue his education and earned his GED.  He then enrolled and graduated from Lindsey Wilson College, Campbellsville College and ultimately attained his Master's Degree and Rank I from Western Kentucky University.  He started in the classroom, became Head Teacher at Cane Valley School, Principal at Knifley Grade Center and Sparksville Grade Center before retiring from the Adair County School System after 24 years.   He was always proud that his former students and staff recognized him and called him “Mr. Rodgers.” 

Billy was a devout life-long member of Pickett’s Chapel Church, where he served many roles, Sunday School Teacher, Sunday School Superintendent and Song Leader.  He enjoyed the community singings and singing with the Pickett’s Chapel Quartet.  His love for farming was evident as his black barns, clean fence rows and black cattle were seen in the Pickett’s Chapel community.

Survivors include:

His wife of 64 years – Joyce Coffey Rodgers of Columbia

Two daughters and sons-in-law – Cathy and David Martin, Mitzi and Roger Cundiff all of Columbia

Six grandchildren – Haley Martin, Chase Coffey (BreAnna), McKenzie Martin, Ethan Cundiff, Jessica Sexton (Brandon) and Jodie Stephens

Three great-grandchildren – Asher and Avery Martin and Carter Ann Coffey

One brother – Bobby Rodgers of Exie

Several other relatives and friends

Funeral service – Tuesday, May 2, 2023 at 12:00 P.M. at Pickett’s Chapel Church with Bro. Larry Huckaby and Bro. Darrell Coffey officiating

Burial in Columbia Cemetery

Visitation after 4:30 P.M. Monday from 6:00 A.M. until 9:00 A.M. Tuesday at Grissom-Martin Funeral Home and after 10:00 A.M. Tuesday at the church

In lieu of flowers, the family would rather a donation be made to Hosparus-Green River or Pickett’s Chapel Church, which can be left at the funeral home or church

Casket Bearers:  Chase Coffey, Ethan Cundiff, McKenzie Martin, Asher Martin, Avery Martin, Cotton Smith, Mark Baker, Tim Smith, Gary Coffey, Michael Scobee and Wayne Scobee

Honorary:  Millard Keltner, Matthew Keltner and the men of the Pickett’s Chapel Church

Grissom-Martin Funeral Home in charge of arrangements