James Lewis "Jim" Rogers

James Lewis Rogers (Jim), a resident of Independence, MO, passed away peacefully Tuesday, September 19th, at Centerpoint Medical Center.  He was born July 7, 1932, to John Sharp and Eula C Rogers in Sylvarena, MS, where he was raised with two brothers and enjoyed country life in a small town. Jim attended the University of Mississippi and came back to Sylvarena to marry his childhood sweetheart, LeDonne Yelverton, riding his horse, Billy, to her home for courtship and marriage proposal. Jim worked as a boiler maker for a few years but began his career as a petroleum landman in 1957 until he retired at the age of 57.

Jim was converted to the RLDS church at a church reunion and baptized later that same year.  He served in many capacities in the church including multiple pastorships and Louisiana-Mississippi District President but heeded the call to gather into the center place in 1987, where he built a home and family farm in Eastern Jackson County. While living in Independence, Jim was pastor during the building of the Buckner Restoration Branch, Center Place Restoration School developer and board member, High Priest, Apostle, & Patriarch. Jim had a special fondness of being partnered together with Patriarch Bill Davies on multiple ministry opportunities and sharing the gospel with saints around the Midwest region.

In addition to his many church responsibilities, Jim was also instrumental in establishing Water District #16 in Eastern Jackson County.

Jim and LeDonne were the proud parents of 3 children: Michael Brian, Richard Lewis, & Mary Catherine; grandchildren: Rick, Micah, Rachel, Joseph, Philip, & Derek; and numerous great grandchildren. By whatever fond name he was called- Dad, Pop, Poppa Jim, Popster, Poppy- he loved his family deeply and was always ready to lend a helping hand whenever needed. Jim greatly loved and was beloved by his 3 daughters-in-law, Susan (deceased), Michele and Brenda.

Jim enjoyed fishing, hunting, boating, camping & gardening. He treasured many memorable gatherings both in Mississippi and here in Independence on the family farm, sharing food, fellowship and laughter, a tradition established by previous generations.

Jim was predeceased by his wife of 59 years, LeDonne (Independence, MO), his parents-Sharp and Eula Rogers (Sylvarena, MS), and brothers- Billy Charles Rogers (Andrews, TX), and John Hillman Rogers (Brandon, MS). 

The family will greet friends from 12:00 p.m., until service time Saturday at the Remnant Church of Jesus Christ of  Latter Day Saints, 2820  M 291 Frontage Rd., Independence, MO 64057.  Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, September 30, 2023 with private burial to follow in Oak Ridge Memory Gardens.    In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Center Place Restoration School, 819 W Waldo Ave., Independence, MO 64050.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel (816) 373-3600)