Windell Cecil Rogers, 94, of Marion passed away peacefully Sunday, March 17, 2024 at Generations Assisted Living in Chapin, South Carolina.

Born in the Zion Community of Marion County, he was the son of the late William Edward and Lester Meares Rogers.

Cecil, known as "Big Daddy" to his grandchildren and their friends, retired from CSX Railroad after 40 years of service. He loved telling tales of his adventures during those years. In his retirement, he enjoyed his workshop and making invaluable furniture pieces for his family and friends. His craft is the pride of many homes throughout South Carolina and beyond.

No doubt, he was a "Man's Man" and talented athlete, but he also could charm anyone with his crystal blue eyes and mischievous nature. Many called him their "go to" guy if something needed to be repaired, as he had a unique mechanical intelligence that allowed him to solve the problem. It has been suggested that he probably has hundreds of possible patents tucked away in his workshop.

More than anything, he loved his family and church, was a devout Christian, and was a true and loyal friend.

Other than his parents and all of his 12 siblings, he was predeceased by the love of his life and wife of 66 years, Grace Brown Rogers.

Cecil is survived by his daughter, Kathy Padgett and son-in-law, Johnny Padgett of Chapin, South Carolina and granddaughters, Katy Padgett of Surfside Beach and Blythe Padgett of North Augusta.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at Meares Funeral Home in Mullins and at other times at the Rogers home, 407 South Main Street in Marion. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, March 21, 2024 at Rose Hill Cemetery in Marion.

Donations can be made in memory of Cecil to First United Methodist Church of Marion or to Uncle Charlie's Hut, P.O. Box 155, Marion, South Carolina 29571 or to St. Jude Children's Research, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or at www.stjude.org.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of Generations of Chapin for their love and care and to the many special friends he made over the last two years. Also, a grateful thanks to the staff of MSA Hospice Services for their compassion and professionalism.

An online guestbook is available at www.mearesfh.com.

Meares Funeral Home of Mullins is honored to serve the Rogers family.