Hattie Mae Rogers was born on April 23, 1944, in Starkville, Mississippi, to Willie and Nimmia (Thompson) Rogers, Sr. Hattie grew up in a loving and close-knit family. From an early age, she embraced a strong work ethic and a deep faith that guided her throughout her life. She accepted Christ at an early age and remained steadfast in her beliefs, providing her with strength and comfort.
Hattie graduated from Maben High School in Mississippi, where she excelled as an athlete on the girls' basketball team. Her fun and competitive spirit endured throughout her life; she enjoyed spending time with her children and even played a game of softball at a church event—a testament to the vitality she carried well into adulthood.
As a young woman seeking new opportunities, Hattie moved to Chicago to build her life and career. She worked primarily in the Food Service industry. A hardworking and selfless single parent, she devoted herself to raising her four children: Robbie Rogers (Tamara), Yvette Rogers, Yvonne Rogers, and Arcadio Christopher Rogers. Despite life’s challenges, Hattie’s strength and determination never wavered as she provided her family with love and care.
A gifted cook who learned from her mother on their family farm, Hattie delighted family members with dishes that showcased her Southern roots. Her peach cobbler, homemade vanilla ice cream, pound cake, and Southern staples like collard greens, cornbread, pot roast and countless other dishes were favorites. Cooking was more than just a skill for Hattie; it was another way she expressed her love.
In addition to cooking, Hattie had a passion for sewing and quilting—a craft she learned from her mother. She lovingly crafted clothing for her children and worked on and completed quilts started by her mother—beautiful quilts that celebrated family traditions while reflecting her creativity and devotion to those she loved.
Hattie had a servant’s heart and found joy in helping others throughout her life. She also returned to Mississippi from Chicago to care for her father after the passing of her mother—a testament to her selflessness and devotion to family.
Hattie’s journey led her back to Chicago some years after caring for her father. Hattie was a homebody and spent time with her family. She enjoyed some of her favorite pastimes including playing games on her tablet and watching television shows such as ‘Touched by an Angel’, ‘Highway to Heaven, ‘Perry Mason’, ‘Wheel of Fortune’, and court programs like ‘Judge Judy’. These moments of relaxation offered glimpses into the simple joys she appreciated amid a life filled with hard work and service. Her deep faith sustained her through life’s trials and helped her endure chronic pain in more recent years with grace and courage.
Hattie is survived by her children; sisters Eva Mae Brown, Julia Mae Brown, Martha Jackson, and Mattie Lee Rogers; brothers M.C. Rogers, J.C. Rogers, and Johnny Rogers; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish their memories of her kindness and generosity.
She was preceded in death by her parents; twin sister Jessie Mae Rogers; brothers Willie Rogers Jr., Dock Rogers, Jessie Rogers, Oscar Rogers, J.T. Rogers, Eddie Rogers, Walter Rogers; as well as many other loved ones who undoubtedly welcomed her home with open arms.
Visitation will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at DuPage AME Church located at 4300 Yackley Avenue in Lisle, IL. The Homegoing Service will follow at 10:00 AM at the same location. Interment will take place at Hillcrest Cemetery in Bolingbrook, IL. A repass will be held immediately after the interment at DuPage AME Church.
Hattie Mae Rogers will be remembered for her strength of character, boundless kindness, generosity of spirit, and enduring love for her family. Her legacy lives on through the lives she touched so deeply. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her as we take solace in knowing she is at peace with the Lord.
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