Johnnie Massey

(A time to be born)
To the world, he was papa; however on January, 193re the oldest children of 4 he was born Jonnie Rodgers. He and his tin John were the oldest children of George & Clara Rodgers, both of whom have made their life’s transitions. Johnnie had 1 daughter, 3 sons, 3 sisters and 3 brothers that preceded him in making their life transition.
(A time to plant)
Johnnie attended public school system in Moorhead, MS 7 picked cotton to help his parents take care of him & his nine brothers and sisters. In hopes of a better life his parents moved him and his parents moved him and his siblings to East St. Louis, IL. To provide for his own family, Papa worked at Bear Nester Glass Company and alongside his brothers at the family business, Rodgers Roofing.
(A time to love)
While singing in a Gospel Quartet group, called The Zion Jubilees, Johnnie met Eddie Bea Williams. They dated for a while and soon untied in holy matrimony on May 12, 1979. To their union two daughters were born.
(A time to build up)
Papa realized at an early age the importance of having God in your life. So he confessed a hope in Christ and was later baptized at Markham M. B. Church under the leadership of Rev. Allen in Moorhead, MS. He later joined Summit M. B. Church under the leadership of his brother Rev. Dr. Dennis Rodgers, where he served as a faithful deacon and an usher.
(A time to share)
Papa enjoyed sharing special moments with his family such as: going to church, out to eat, sitting with his girls’ in rehearsal, and singing his favorite song “SWEET JESUS” along with them.
He loved playing with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but if they got out of hand, they met his good friends Brown Sugar & Black Jack; just ask DeDrea’ who they are. AHHH THE MEMORIES!!!

(A time to die)
The Father who looked down on His Son and said, “My son your work down there is done. You have fought the good fight, and completed your assignment, so come on home and rest.” After receiving approval from the Lord, Johnnie Rodgers crossed life’s finish line down here on Earth on Sunday August 28th at 9:45 am.