August 3, 1961 ~ April 20, 2024 (age 62)

Samuel Lester Rogers, 62, of Illiopolis, IL passed away on April 20, 2024, at home. Sam was born August 3, 1961, the seventh and youngest child of Jesse and Leola Dellomo Rogers. He was preceded in death
by his parents, sister Beverly Pfiefer and brother-in-law Terry Upp. Sam is survived by his brother Jesse L. Rogers (Sharon), and sisters Rita Calbow (Jerry), Leola (Micki) Hildebrandt (Mike), Vickie Upp, and Tina Miller (Joe), 16 nieces and nephews and many great nieces and nephews.

As a life-long resident of llliopolis, Sam was involved in many activities. He was a 1980 graduate of IIliopolis High School and was member of the lliopolis Christian Church, Illiopolis Lion’s Club, was a co-chair of Santa’s Elves of lliopolis, Illiopolis Community Service Club (president for many years) and Sons of American Revolution. Sam was a founding member of the lliopolis Jaycees, for which he held many positions, including serving three years as president. In 1987, Sam was named lliopolis Citizen of the Year.

In 1982, Sam was employed as a janitor, a job that he thoroughly enjoyed and loved, at Illiopolis High School and maintained that employment until 1999, when his worsening eyesight necessitated his retirement. In 2001, Sam was appointed to the Illiopolis Village Board, and he held that position for many years. In 2013 he was elected Mayor of Illiopolis and was in the midst of serving his third term. He was proud of the distinction of being the first blind mayor in Illinois history. Sam had many hobbies, including collecting cast iron toys, but his favorite pastime was collecting Illiopolis memorabilia. His collection included mementos from almost every Illiopolis community group, church and business ever affiliated with his hometown.

A memorial service will be held at 4:30 on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at the Illiopolis Christian Church, followed by a time of visitation, remembrance and fellowship until 7:00. Sam specifically requested no flowers and instead to have memorial donations made to the llliopolis Christian Church (304 Anne Street, Illiopolis, IL 62539).

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