John Mack Rogers Sr. "Johnny"

John Mack Rogers Sr., 88, of Jonesboro, went home to be with Jesus Friday, March 10, 2017 at his home.

“Johnny” was born in Jonesboro on February 24, 1929 and was a life-long resident. He married his sweetheart, Bettye June Pyland, of Caraway and would have celebrated 67 years of marriage on March 11, 2017. He and Bettye are members of First Baptist Church of Jonesboro. Johnny was a salesman for Starr Coffee Company and thoroughly enjoyed calling on each account along the way. After his father, Byron Curtis, passed away he took over his produce route at M. E. Carter; eventually he bought the company along with two very good friends. He had a true passion for produce and pleasing customers with the best! After selling M. E. Carter, he bought Catfish Galley and the Catfish Wharf in Paragould. After many years of dedication and hard work, he retired. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, Bettye, hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Byron Curtis Sr. and Metta Rogers; baby sister, Jean “Ginger” Francis; sister, Betty Lou Lands; brother, Bryon Curtis Jr. “BC”.

He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Bettye June Rogers, of the home; son, John Mack Jr “Skip” and wife Rhonda of Jonesboro; daughter, Candy Rogers Ballard and husband, Steve of Jonesboro. He is also survived by his brother Dr. James F. Rogers of Jonesboro. He had three granddaughters; Dr. Emily Ballard Gairhan and husband Scott of Jonesboro; Lindsay Rogers of Jonesboro; Jessica Rogers Eller and husband Matt of Jonesboro. He had two precious great grandchildren who always put a smile on his face; Lily Grace and Parker Scott Gairhan of Jonesboro. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and close friends. The family is grateful for NEA Baptist Hospital staff, Health South Staff and therapist and also Ridgecrest Nursing Home Rehabilitation Center staff and therapists.

Visitation will be from 11:00 to 1:00 PM, Monday, March 13, 2017 at First Baptist Church of Jonesboro. The funeral service will follow at 1:00 PM with nephew, Dr. Tad Rogers, and Brother Bruce Venable officiating. Emerson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery with Trey Rogers, Fred Wiseman, Danny Dacus, Lucky Rogers, Randy Johnson, Henry Cooksey and Travis Stone serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will include Bill Rogers, Richard Walden, Nate Scholtens, Paul Bowden, Ted Thomas and Mike Kee. For lasting memorials, please consider First Baptist Church, 701 S. Main, Jonesboro, Arkansas 72401.

We want to thank Daddy’s wonderful sitters who sat by his bedside caring for his every need at home 24 hours a day. We are forever grateful for Tricia White and Susie Harris.