02/20/2024
Thank you Lyon College for your kind tribute to my grandmother.
My grandparents were so proud of my years at Lyon. Attending college was important to them, and when I received my degree from Lyon in 2006 they looked on with proud smiles (see photo in comments 😍).
In regard to my grandparents, the tribute mentions: “Together, they ventured into the world of real estate, shaping communities and creating opportunities across several states.”
I hope to follow in their footsteps in my own small way. I’m so proud to be part of their legacy. ❤️
It is with sincere gratitude that we honor and remember the remarkable life of Ms. Josephine Raye Rogers, a beloved member of our community and honorary alumnus whose contributions have left an indelible mark on Lyon College and beyond.
Ms. Raye's partnership with her beloved husband, Doyle, who served on the Lyon College Board of Trustees for years, was the epitome of dedication and entrepreneurship. Together, they ventured into the world of real estate, shaping communities and creating opportunities across several states.
Ms. Raye's legacy extends far beyond business success. She was a tireless advocate for education, healthcare, and community service, dedicating her time and energy to numerous boards and commissions, including the Arkansas College (now Lyon College) President’s Advisory Council, on which she served as a founding member, and the White River Medical Center. Alongside Doyle, she exemplified the spirit of community engagement, actively participating in the life of their Batesville church, First United Methodist Church.
In 1989, Lyon College opened Wilson and Rogers Hall in honor of Trustee Rogers, Ms. Raye, and family, along with Trustee Dr. R. Sloan Wilson and family.
The Rogers's philanthropic spirit knew no bounds, as evidenced by their generous contributions to projects, including the Josephine Raye Rogers Women’s Center and Imaging at WRMC. Ms. Raye's community endeavors, including efforts to found the Old Independence Regional Museum, continue to enrich and inspire us all.
Ms. Raye's legacy of generosity and service lives on through her family, including her daughter, Barbara Josephine Rogers Hoover, her son, Doyle W. "Rog" Rogers Jr., and their families, who continue to embody her spirit of compassion and community engagement.
As we mourn the loss of a dear friend and neighbor, let us also celebrate Ms. Raye’s extraordinary life—a beacon of inspiration whose legacy will continue to inspire us all. Her light will shine on in our hearts forever.