Thomas "Tom" Drewry Rogers, Jr.

Thomas “Tom” Rogers Jr. was born in Augusta, GA, and retired from MCG (Augusta University). He was the son of the late Katherine Hoffman Rogers and the late Thomas Drewrey Rogers, Sr.

Tom left this world on June 10, 2025, with a smirk on his face and probably an inappropriate joke on the tip of his tongue. He was 82 years old, and while his heart may have finally taken a rest, his comedic timing and musical soul never did.

Tom was a man of many things—sharp wit, bold opinions, questionable T-shirts, and a deep love for music that ran through his veins like melody through a Motown groove. He was deeply involved in the music scenes of both Augusta and Nashville, where he met the love of his life, Becky. They shared 47 wonderful years together. A lifelong member of Saint John United Methodist Church in Augusta, Tom found great joy in singing with the chancel choir.

His piano was an extension of himself: a little worn, a little loud, and filled with soul. He played it with passion and sang like no one was watching— except everyone was watching, because it was impossible to look away. His voice was raw, heartfelt, and sometimes hilariously off-key (especially after a couple of rum and tonics ).

Tom found truth in music the way others found it in silence. Whether he was singing in bed or playing his famously requested song about roaches dancing on the wall, music was how he processed the world—and how he gave love when words failed him.

Of course, words rarely failed Tom. He was hilariously inappropriate at all the wrong (but somehow right) times. He made people laugh when they least expected it—and sometimes when they really, really shouldn’t have. He was that guy who wore the most politically incorrect shirts to a family event and still managed to charm everyone by dessert.

Tom loved in his own, beautiful, chaotic way. He wasn’t always tactful, but he was always present. If you were lucky enough to be loved by him, you knew it. You felt it in the laughter, the music, and the merciless teasing.

He leaves behind a band of loving, laughing family members— he is survived by his wife, Sara Rebecca “Becky” Rogers. He is also survived by a son, Drew (Kim “Cookie”) Gaddy. Grandfather to Katie (Dale) Farmer, Zach (Samantha) Gaddy, Ethan (Brooke) Gaddy, Toree (Sarah) Gaddy. Great-grandfather to Carli, EJ Gaddy, and Clay, Culley Farmer. He also leaves behind lifelong friends and a beat-up piano that no one else can quite make sing like he did. He also leaves behind a closet of wildly liberal shirts that we don’t know whether to wear, frame, or hide.

Those who were fortunate enough to have met him will never forget his quick wit and off-color jokes.

Tom reminded us that life is too short to be boring, too beautiful not to sing about, and too precious to go unlaughed. So in his honor: play a song that moves you, say something honest (and maybe a little inappropriate), and hug someone like you mean it.

A memorial service will be held at St. John United Methodist Church on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The family will receive visitors in the parlor an hour before the service begins.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. John United Methodist Church, 736 Greene Street, Augusta, GA 30901.