Rodger Alan Lawrence, born December 15, 1962, left his earthly home to join family members in heaven on December 29, 2025.
Born in Lima, Ohio, Rodger-with a "D"-grew up in the country surrounded by grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and hundreds of acres of farmland. He loved traveling the country roads, first on his bicycle and later on his minibike, always checking on what was happening in the community. If supper at home wasn't his favorite, he would head to a relative's house to see if their meal sounded better-always calling his mom to let her know where he ended up that evening.
A star high school basketball player, Rodger earned awards each year at ONU basketball camp. His excitement for the game was unmatched. One year, he was so eager that he woke at 3:00 a.m. to shower and get ready for camp. When a coach heard the water running and asked what he was doing, Rodger simply replied, "Getting ready for my day, Coach."
Rodger graduated from Clark State, where he enjoyed college life and made lifelong friends. In 1983, he became one of the first 1,000 employees at Honda, beginning a career that would span 31 years. In his role, Rodger traveled throughout the United States fixing vehicles that required special attention, with several trips to Japan adding to his Honda experience.
Rodger's greatest joy and pride were his children-Parker Alan, Tanner Jay, and Lauren Ashley. When the boys were young, Rodger coached every team they played on, finding purpose not only in the sport but in helping young people feel confident and valued. Becoming a grandfather was one of the highlights of his life. He deeply loved his grandchildren, Leighton Ann, Beckham James, and Reece Anderson, and spoke of them often. Leighton and Beckham knew exactly where Grandpa kept their special treats, and their daily visits were the brightest part of his days. Updates about Reece followed every visit, ensuring everyone knew that "Reecie" was a happy little guy.
Rodger proudly shared the accomplishments of his children with anyone who would listen. Parker built a successful business and was an exceptional father who adored his children. Lauren took pride in her work as a businesswoman and later as a loving mother. Tanner embraced his adventurous spirit, building a life and successful law practice on St. Thomas, USVI. Rodger cherished his children's partners-Hana, whose sassy spirit matched his own; Jake, whose meticulous lawn care earned Rodger's respect; and Tori, his soon-to-be daughter-in-law, who shared in Rodger's love for time spent together in Urbana and on the islands.
Anyone who knew Rodger knew his passion for his home and lawn. He loved being outdoors, keeping his lawn immaculate with mowing once or twice each week during the season and surrounding his home with beautiful flowers. Neighbors joked that he set the standard too high. Rodger was always ready to help a neighbor, support block parties, teach children to play checkers, and keep his refrigerator stocked with treats for visiting kids.
In recent years, Rodger loved spending part of each winter on the island of St. John. He could sit for hours watching the Caribbean waters and palm trees while enjoying time with family and friends. On the island, he was known everywhere-often walking into a restaurant only to be greeted with shouts of "Hi, Rodg!" After Hurricanes Irma and Maria struck St. John, Rodger was the first family member to arrive, helping repair the family home and assisting others despite months without electricity, clean water, or modern comforts. He truly became part of the island community.
Rodger lived by the words, "While I was living, I lived!" And he truly did.
Rodger is survived by his children Parker (Hana) Lawrence, Leighton and Beckham (Urbana, OH); Lauren (Jake) Walden, Reece (Cincinnati, OH); Tanner and fiancée Tori Matheis (St. Thomas, VI); brother Rodney (Sandy) Lawrence (Powell, OH); sister Cheryl (Dave) McDaniel (Sea Girt, NJ); niece Rachel Lawrence (Bradenton, FL); along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father Cloyd ("Dutch"), mother Mary Ann, nephew Matthew Lawrence, aunt Phyllis Miller, uncles Noble Jay and Donald Zimmerman, aunt Mirella Zimmerman, grandparents Noble and Cleo Zimmerman, Edgar and Irene Lawrence, uncles Bill and Lloyd Lawrence, and aunt Lucy Lawrence.
A celebration of life will be held in the future.
