James Wilbur Rodgers

James Wilbur “Jimmy” Rodgers, 76, lifelong resident of Columbia, died Monday, November 17, 2025 at his residence with his family by his side.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Columbia Elks Lodge 686 1208 WKRM Lane, Columbia, TN 38401 or Hospice Compassus 1503 Hatcher Lane Suite 200, Columbia, TN 38401. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

Jimmy was born on March 14, 1949 in Maury County, TN to the late John Windsor “Wink” Rodgers and the late Rebecca Maron Jeter Rodgers. He graduated from Columbia Central High School in 1967 and served in the United States Navy during Vietnam. For thirty years he worked as a splicer with BellSouth and AT&T. Jimmy was very involved in the community having served three times as Exalted Ruler with Columbia Elks Lodge 686, also a member of Columbia Masonic Lodge #31 and Al Menah Shrine Temple in Nashville, a member of The Shop and American Legion Post 19. He was an avid UT Vols fan, earlier in life he enjoyed being on the water and hunting. Most of all he will be remembered as a kind and loving man that adored his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife Ellen Scheitel Rodgers of Columbia; daughter and son in law, Jencie and Jason Potts of Columbia; four grandchildren, Tristin Harmon, Walker Potts, Brody Potts, and Gunner Potts; two great grandchildren, Oakley Webb and Journey Webb; several brothers in law and sisters in law and nieces and nephews and many friends.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by sister, Carolyn Hickman, brother, John Dennis Rodgers, Sr.

The family would like to express a special thanks to his friend at The Shop, Cliques Hair Salon, Columbia Elks Lodge 686 and The Card Group.