Thomas "Tom" Franklin Delano Rogers

Life & Legacy of Thomas Franklin Delano Rogers

Born in Greene County, Pennsylvania, Thomas Franklin Delano Rogers (Tom) lived a life defined by faith, honor, humility, and unwavering service to others.

Tom proudly served in the United States Army for 38 years, retiring honorably after a distinguished career. A Green Beret and Chief Warrant Officer Three (CW3) in Special Forces, he dedicated his life to missions that demanded courage, discipline, and absolute commitment. His service included duty during the Vietnam War and service connected to the Dominican Republic, earning him lifelong membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Throughout his military career, he earned numerous commendations and distinctions, reflecting a lifetime of faithful and selfless service.

Though his accomplishments were extraordinary, Tom never sought recognition. He carried his rank and experience quietly, marked by rare humility and deep pride in serving his country. He believed in doing his duty well and allowing his actions to speak for themselves.

Tom valued education and lifelong learning, earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Gardner-Webb University. That same discipline and commitment guided every part of his life, both in and out of uniform.

He was a devoted member of the Knights Templar of Fayetteville within the York Rite of Freemasonry, Laurinburg Lodge No. 305, A.F. & A.M., and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Hamlet, NC. These organizations reflected the principles he lived by — brotherhood, honor, faith, and service — and provided lifelong bonds he held in great respect.

Above all else, Tom loved God, and he loved his wife Joyce more than life itself. She was his partner, his constant, and his greatest blessing. Their marriage was built on devotion, loyalty, and deep respect, and her presence anchored him through every chapter of his life and service.

While his service to his country was profound, Tom’s love for his family was just as deep. He took great pride in his son, Haynes, and his grandchildren, cherishing time spent with them and finding joy in watching his legacy continue through future generations.

Tom also held a deep love for his entire family — both by blood and by marriage. He valued closeness, loyalty, and presence, and cherished the bonds he shared with his nieces, nephews, and extended family, many of whom stood faithfully beside him during his final days. Their love and unwavering support reflected the kind of man he was and the relationships he nurtured throughout his life.

He was also a true friend — the kind of man who stood shoulder to shoulder with others. To many, he was more than a friend; he was a brother. He was respected for his integrity, trusted for his loyalty, and remembered for the genuine care he showed to people from all walks of life.

Thomas Franklin Delano Rogers lived with purpose and honor. His mission here is complete, but his legacy endures — in the wife he loved so fiercely, in his family and future generations, in the brothers who stood beside him, and in the country he served with pride and humility.  He passed away at the age of 81 surrounded by his loving family on January 21, 2026.

He preceded in death by his parents, the late Samuel Clarence Rogers and Lillian Mae Brenthoover Rogers; and brother Samuel Rogers; sisters, Nellie M. Haines and Dixie Christopher.  Tom survived by his adoring family, devoted wife, Joyce P. Rogers of their home; son, Haynes  Powell and wife Haley of Laurinburg; grandchildren, Tyler Powell, Mackenzie Powell, Ean Delano Powell, Bryson Powell; great grandchildren, Saylor Dial, Kreighton Dial and  Ellie Claire Dial; sister, Bonniegail Lemley; brother-in-law, Johnny Christopher and sister-in-law, Judy Rogers, along with a host of loving nieces, nephews and extended family. 

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. in the Richard Boles Funeral Service Chapel officiated by Rev. Lee Jackson.   Burial with full military honors will follow the service in Hillside Memorial Park.

The family will have a time of visitation prior to services on Wednesday beginning at 12:00 p.m. until 12:45 p.m. at Richard Boles Funeral Service.  

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