Anthony "Tony" P. Rodgers

Anthony "Tony" Parnell Rodgers, 64, of Strong, Arkansas, departed this life on Saturday, August 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Anthony was born on February 10, 1962, in El Dorado, Arkansas, to the late Claudia Faye Thigpen Rodgers and Clarence "Bud" Rodgers, Sr.

Anthony accepted Jesus Christ at an early age and united with St. James Baptist Church in El Dorado, Arkansas. Later in life, he became a faithful member of Curry Chapel AME Church in Strong, Arkansas, where he continued to grow in his faith.

Anthony attended Watson Elementary School and Rogers Junior High School before graduating from El Dorado High School in 1981. Following graduation, he proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, serving aboard the USS Ranger (CV-61) from May 26, 1981, until May 19, 1985. His military service afforded him the opportunity to travel extensively, and he often shared stories of his visits to New York, San Diego, Dallas, and the Philippines. Those experiences became cherished memories that remained with him throughout his life.

After completing his military service, Anthony returned home carrying experiences that shaped the course of his life. His journey was one of perseverance, resilience, and personal growth. Through life's many seasons, he learned valuable lessons that strengthened his faith, deepened his appreciation for family, and shaped him into the compassionate man so many came to know and love. Throughout the years, he worked a variety of jobs, always willing to work hard and provide for his family.

Anthony never met a stranger. If you stopped to have a conversation with him, chances are you would leave smiling. He found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved spending time outdoors, especially fishing, where he found peace in the beauty and quiet of nature. He also enjoyed playing dominoes, helping in the concession stand, and spending time with his daughters, siblings, family, and friends.

Anthony was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Clarence "Bud" Rodgers, Sr. and Claudia Faye Thigpen Rodgers; his grandparents, Tommy and Trudie Mae Thigpen; his brothers, Clarence "Bubba" Rodgers, Jr., Victor "Marsetti" Rodgers, Quintin "Nut" Rodgers, Keith Bishop Rodgers, and Alfonzo "Al" Montgomery, Sr.; and his sisters, Carolyn Bullock and Carolyn McClelland. Though they departed this life before him, their love, guidance, and memories remained close to Anthony's heart throughout his life.

Anthony leaves to cherish his precious memories his three daughters, Adrienne Easter of Little Rock, Arkansas; Cushena Scott (Julian, Sr.) of Benton, Arkansas; and MaiMirical Rodgers of Strong, Arkansas. His love and legacy continue through his cherished grandchildren, Nevaeh Easter, Cameron Easter, Arryunna Easter, Malasia Easter, Jeremiah Easter, Jaylee Scott, Avery Scott, Julian Scott, Jr., and Kinsley Smith-Ellis; his great-grandson, Seny'a; his brothers, Mario Rodgers (Keitha) of Conway, Arkansas, and Cori D. Rodgers of Blytheville, Arkansas; his sisters, Sue Ann Jenkins (Jerome) of El Dorado, Arkansas, Sharon Gatson (Cleodis) of North Little Rock, Arkansas, Beverly Montgomery (Harold Fooster) of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Tara Vache Loggins of Strong, Arkansas, and Alice Rodgers Cato of Antioch, California. Anthony also shared a special bond with and helped raise Virginia Grimes, Tiffany Grimes, Makayla Smith, and Jaquavis Scott, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Anthony also leaves behind a host of devoted nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, lifelong friends, and all whose lives were touched by his kindness, generosity, and love.