Earl S. Rodgers, age 92 of Dayton, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in the comfort of his home and surrounded by his family. Earl was born on April 6, 1934, in Marvell, Arkansas, to the late George Edgar Rogers and Georgia Mae Rogers.

Earl later moved to Dayton where he raised his family, built a successful business, and became a well-known and unforgettable member of the community. Earl was the founder of Hi-Tech Tire, Inc. and was a hardworking and respected businessman. However, Earl was known for far more than his success in business. He was a kind and generous man who was always willing to help someone in need. Everyone who met Earl remembered him. Whether through his business, a conversation, a favor, or one of his many jokes, Earl had a way of leaving a lasting impression on those he met.

Earl loved to laugh and was always ready to tell a joke to his family, friends, customers, or anyone willing to listen. He enjoyed watching FOX News and cheering on his beloved Atlanta Braves. Earl also dearly loved his dogs, especially his best buddy, Sadie, who held a very special place in his heart.

Earl and his wife, Wanda Messimer Rodgers, shared 60 years of marriage and built a lifetime of memories together. His family was one of the greatest joys of his life, and he was immensely proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Earl is survived by his wife of 60 years, Wanda Messimer Rodgers; his children, Douglas “Doug” Rodgers and his wife, Brenda, Beth Rodgers and her partner, David Ishmael, and Sonya Wall and her husband, Jeff; his sister, Bess Wesch, of the Dallas, Texas, area; his grandchildren, Chelse B. Reed and her partner, Quinn Rodriguez, Abby Wall, Collin Rodgers, Tommy Geisel, Nick Geisel, Ana Maria Sinder, Alex Geisel, and Erin Rodgers; his special grandchildren, Alydia Horta and Teneal Haney; eleven great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and his very good friends, Tina Haney, Joey Nelson, Savannah Potter, and Joshua Stock. He is also survived by many extended family members, friends, customers, and members of the community whose lives were touched by his kindness and generosity.

Earl will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, businessman, and friend. His sense of humor, generous heart, unforgettable personality, and willingness to help others will never be forgotten. His memory will continue to live on through his family and the many people who were fortunate enough to know him.

In accordance with Earl’s wishes, he will be cremated, and no traditional funeral service will be held. Instead, his family and friends will gather for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern at Calvary Baptist Church in Dayton, Tennessee, with Pastor Joshua Stock officiating. All who knew and loved Earl are invited to attend and celebrate the remarkable life he lived.

The family is being cared for by Vanderwall Funeral Home in Dayton, Tennessee.