With profound love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of Connie L. Rogers, who entered eternal rest peacefully on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at the remarkable age of 101.
Connie was born on April 11, 1925, in Benton, Illinois, the daughter of the late Ray and Thelma Matilda (Squibb) Akin. Tragically, Connie lost her mother when she was only one year old, but she was lovingly raised by Maggie and Johnny Akin, who cared for her as their own and provided her with a foundation of love and family that she carried throughout her life.
Connie’s 101 years were filled with faith, devotion, kindness, and an unwavering love for her family. On March 21, 1948, she married the love of her life, William J. “Bill” Rogers. Together, they built a beautiful life and shared more than 51 wonderful years of marriage until Bill’s passing on June 2, 1999.
To her family, she was much more than a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother—she was Nana. Though it began as a cherished family title, Connie became Nana to everyone she met. Whether related by blood or not, she had a remarkable way of making people feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Her home, her heart, and her arms were always open. To know Connie was to know kindness, warmth, and unconditional love, and her gentle spirit will be remembered by all whose lives she touched.
Connie enjoyed life’s simple pleasures and the friendships she made along the way. Wednesdays were reserved for card club, where she enjoyed playing canasta with friends, Thursdays were for getting her hair done, and Fridays were spent with her Friday night dinner group at Midland Inn, where laughter, stories, and companionship were always shared. She never turned down a good margarita and had a special fondness for fried fish, especially when enjoyed among family and friends. She loved watching the cardinals and yellow finches that visited her yard, finding joy in their beauty and the simple reminder to slow down and appreciate life’s blessings.
Connie worked for many years at Sears, where she built lasting friendships and eventually retired. She valued hard work, cherished her friendships, and found joy in spending time with the people she loved.
Connie treasured every moment spent with her family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were truly her pride and joy. She delighted in watching generations grow around her and took great pride in their accomplishments and happiness. One of her greatest joys was preparing candy bags for her great-grandchildren at every visit, a tradition they eagerly looked forward to and one that perfectly reflected her generous and loving heart. Her legacy of love, kindness, and compassion will live on in each of them.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Patty (Randy) Gibson; grandchildren, Joey Robbins (Jessica Southworth) and Shelbi (Wes) Smith; great-grandchildren, Grace Robbins (Cace Cook), Lane, Harrison, Russell, and Matilda Smith; and those who lovingly knew her as Aunt Connie: Wes and Linda Gibson and kids, and many other beloved family members and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill Rogers; a brother who was stillborn; her grandson, Ryan Robbins; her special cousin, Sandy Jacquot; Christopher Gibson; and her cherished companions, Buffy I and Buffy II.
Connie’s family is especially grateful to the caregivers and staff at The Landings at Reed Station Crossing, who became like an extended family to her. Their kindness, patience, and genuine love enriched her life and brought comfort not only to Connie but to all who loved her. The family will forever be thankful for the exceptional care she received.
Though her family will deeply miss her, they find comfort in knowing that her long and beautiful journey was filled with love, laughter, faith, and the blessing of a life well lived. Connie was truly an incredible Nana—one whose love knew no limits, whose kindness touched countless lives, and whose presence made everyone feel at home. The lessons she taught, the traditions she created, and the love she gave so freely will live on for generations. She will be missed beyond measure and remembered always by those fortunate enough to have known and loved her.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Murdale Gardens of Memory, with Eric Lam officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Francis Care, 6228 Country Club Road, Murphysboro, Illinois 62966.
Walker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.
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