Jean Rogers, 1948-2024

Jean Rogers

Jean Atherton Rogers, age 76, died peacefully in her Bonita home on July 28, 2024. Mrs. Rogers was born on June 11th, 1948 in Chula Vista, California, the youngest daughter of Keith Atherton (April 29, 1912 – February 2, 1998) and Edith Lucille Cathcart (June 6, 1911 – September 18, 2004). She began her education at Rosebank Elementary School, followed by Hilltop Middle School, and finally Hilltop High School in Chula Vista, graduating in 1966. While at Hilltop she was a class Senator, Junior Class Secretary, and Red Cross Vice President. It was in high school where she met her future husband, Mark Rogers.

Mrs. Rogers chose to attend the University of Southern California (USC) where she graduated in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science in Education. While at USC, she joined the Alpha Chi Omega sorority, participated in many on campus activities, and was a staple at numerous football games. She was an unwavering supporter of the Trojan football program for the remainder of her life and often traveled to watch the Men of Troy play at rival stadiums across the country, particularly enjoying a good tailgate with fellow alumni.

After graduating from USC, Mrs. Rogers moved back to the San Diego area to pursue a career in education, securing her teaching credential with a specialization in elementary teaching. Mrs. Rogers accepted a position with the Chula Vista Elementary School District, eventually landing at Hilltop Drive Elementary School, where she spent 44 years molding the young minds of the South Bay. While teaching at Hilltop, she founded the Just Say No Club, organized the Hilltop "Games", and was active in the planning of the annual Halloween Festival. Up until her last days, she was constantly recognized by past students, some having attended her classes more than 30 years ago, who would often exclaim, "Hey Mrs. Rogers", which brought her much delight. Among her proudest achievements were the birth of her two sons, Neal Rogers and Kyle Rogers, both of whom carpooled with Mom every day while listening to golden oldies. Eventually the birth of her grandchildren occupied her days and became one of her greatest joys.

Mrs. Rogers' favorite pastimes were traveling both near and far, camping in her little trailer, caring for all types of animals, and hosting family gatherings at her ancestral home. At the center of her heart were her immediate and extended families, which became quite sizeable when she met Roberto "Bob" Hernandez, who became her partner and companion in all of her latter life's adventures. The consummate "team" Mom/Grandma, she rarely missed sporting events, award ceremonies, and plays. In retirement, Mrs. Rogers could be found continuing to ply her trade by volunteering at her granddaughter's school, Olympic View Elementary.

Mrs. Rogers was preceded in death by her parents, step mother Lucille Atherton, her sisters Suzanne Penner, Judy Atherton Buddingh, and Joanne Atherton Walker. Jean is survived by her fiancé Roberto Hernandez, brother David Allen, eldest son Neal Rogers, his wife Cindy Rogers, youngest son Kyle Rogers, his fiancé Lizett Schulz, and her three grandchildren, Ella Rogers, Sophie Rogers, and Beau Rogers.

Mrs. Rogers lived out all her days exactly as she wanted, marching to the beat of her own drum, and surrounded by friends and family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A Memorial Service will be held in the Magnolia Room at Glen Abbey Memorial Park and Mortuary in Bonita, California, on August 23rd at 10 a.m.

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