Ray Leonard Rogers

Ray Leonard Rogers, 81, of Kannapolis, went to be with his Heavenly Father on Thursday, January 9, 2025. 

Ray was born on August 25, 1943 in Rowan County. He was a cherished son of the late Robert Lee Rogers and Emma Oliphant Rogers. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia Goodman Rogers; and his devil dog, Lexi. 

For over 15 years, Ray found peace and joy camping in the beautiful North Carolina mountains, where he made a lifetime of friends. He had an uncanny ability to connect with anyone he met—there was never a stranger in his world. Whether you were a lifelong friend or someone he’d just met, Ray could talk with you for hours, making you feel like you’d known him forever.

Ray and his late wife, Patricia were proud and devoted member of Parkwood Baptist Church. Ray lived his life guided by his faith, his love for family, and his passion for friendship. A true example of kindness, he was always the first to lend a hand or offer a helping word.

Ray had a passion for dogs. They adored him like the dog whisperer himself, and he loved every furry friend he met in return. If you were a dog, you knew that Ray was the human to hang out with.

 A lifelong fan of the North Carolina Tar Heels, Ray was never shy about sharing his excitement for the team and his love for sports. His simple pleasures in life—spending time with family, watching his Tar Heels, and sharing sweet treats—brought him endless joy, and now he can enjoy all the sweets he wants.

He was a man of simple pleasures—faith, family, friends, and sweets—Ray knew how to live life to the fullest. He loved deeply, laughed loudly, and gave generously. We’ll remember him for the jokes, the stories, and the Tar Heels. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Those left to cherish his memory include his son, Rodney Rogers (Susan); and granddaughter, Zoe Rogers. 

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hydrocephalus Foundation- https://www.hydroassoc.org/give/

or Hospice and Palliative Care of Cabarrus County- 5003 Hospice Ln, Kannapolis, NC 28081 

The family will receive friends from 1:00pm to 2:00pm on Monday, January 13, 2025 at Whitley’s Funeral Home in Kannapolis. A funeral service will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 2:00pm with Rev. Michael Waters Officiating. Interment will be at Carolina Memorial Park in Kannapolis.