Nelson Lamar Rodgers, 86, formerly of Lake Charles passed away Monday, Jan. 8th, 2024 in a Hattiesburg, Miss. hospital.

Mr. Rodgers was a native of Crandall, Miss. where he was raised, educated and graduated from Carmichael High School.  Following graduation, he served the United States Army National Guard.  He later moved to Houston and worked for National Supply Company Oilfield Services.  During this time, he met Miss Joyce Fontenot and it was love at first sight and he knew then he would marry her.  In 1962, they married and moved to Lake Charles.   Mr. Rodgers began managing Donut King for his brother-in-law. This began his career in the industry as in 1968 he built and began Nelson’s Donuts, a household name, well known in the Southwest Louisiana community for serving countless many throughout the years.  He was the owner of Nelson’s until he made the decision to sell the shop to a later generation family member in 2020.

Mr. Rodgers was a strong man of faith and an active member of First Christian Church and Community Christian Church.  His belief in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior were the foundation of his life.

He leaves to honor his memory, two sons, Eddie Lamar Rodgers and wife, Lisa, of Melissa Texas, and Kevin Lamar Rodgers of Lake Charles; eight grandchildren; his brother, Jimmy Rodgers; his sister, Carolyn Riggs and husband, John, who he thought of has another brother; as well as, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  

He was preceded in death by his much-loved wife, Joyce Fontenot Rodgers, two sisters, and five brothers. 

Funeral services for Mr. Rodgers will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20th, 2024 in the Chapel of Johnson Funeral Home of Lake Charles.  Reverend David Veillon will officiate.  Visitation Saturday will be from 12 p.m. until the time of service in the funeral home.  Interment services at Black Bayou Cemetery will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Community Christian Church; 613 W Oak Lane, Lake Charles, LA 70605/www.ccc1inChrist.org or to Mercy Ships at mercyships.org.

Words of comfort to the family may be expressed at www.johnsonfuneral home.net.