It is a rare thing to come across something exceptional, much rarer still to have know “someone” who is exceptional. Humans can be fickle at times and because of this relationships can sometimes be strained and unnecessarily complicated. Those exceptional individuals find the calm waters of patience and understanding, navigating them in order to nurture the relationship and obtain the best result. I knew a person who personified the word “exceptional” in everything he endeavored to do. Mr. Ronald Rogers was such a man, a true example of the world’s exceptional people. He moved on from this world on December 1st, 2020 unexpectedly and left many to mourn his passing. Without a doubt, he will be missed!
I’ve know Ron Rogers for more than fifteen years. He preferred to be called Ron. In the beginning the relationship revolved around a professional retail related capacity, but in the years that would pass, he became more than just a client. The relationship evolved into what I consider a “simple and easy” friendship. Ron was uncomplicated when it came to being my friend. There were many times when he would come by my place of work, not to conduct business but simply just to say hello and chat for a while. He would come to see me.
He was a friend to many, and always had a good word to share with anyone. One thing I could say without a shadow of a doubt is that each and every time after speaking or spending some time with him, I would somehow feel better! This I have to say was one of his wondrous gifts. Just being around him would lift up your spirits! His million dollar smile was contagious and his “look on the bright side” attitude was infectious. He was capable of making a friend anywhere he went and this amiable nature of his helped him impact the lives of so many.
His champion cause was an admirable one. For all of the years that I knew him, his passion lied in helping the next generation of young black scholars succeed. He was a prominent figure in the 100 Black Men of Orlando. A group dedicated to the scholarly achievements of the next generation. They did this by raising funds and resources in order to provide scholarships. He gave so much of himself to this cause and to the countless kids that went on to bigger and better things because of his efforts. I feel honored that he came to me year after year to help him with the organization’s yearly dinner celebration.
Mr. Ron Rogers 
Sponsors 
Pre-Dinner 
Scholarship Dinner 
Dinner / Entertainment 
Fortunate to attend
This yearly event was his thing! He did all he could to make sure that those kids, who worked so hard to achieve what they could had as much as he and the other members of the 100 could provide. Every year, like clock work he would mention the event in late March and continually pop in for a visit to fine tune the order for that year and make sure that all of the details were just right. I would always be amazed by his dedication to the event and to his kids. Year after year, it was inspiring to watch as Ron hustled to have everything come together for the grand Scholarship dinner event in June.
There was something about going to his memorial service that moved me in a profound way. Ron was a man who came from humble beginnings, struggled to achieve and felt the unmovable urge to be of service to his community. Listening to the stories told of his life brought a smile, and tear to my face. I sat there thinking of the times when Ron sat with me, chatting about some of the very stories being told. It felt great to reminisce along with everyone else in attendance. Everyone there, at times laughing, other times smiling, occasionally interrupted by the shedding of a few tears. Everyone mindful of how this dedicated, gentle and kind man impacted the many lives that had the great fortune of crossing paths with his.
I found him to be a very real and thoughtful person in every way. A man with a happy soul that lived each day concerned about how he could make someone else’s day better! No matter what was going on, he would always make sure to look you in the eye and ask how you were doing. He would always show genuine concern. To that end, I will take with me the sound of his voice as he shared little gems of wisdom during our chats. One of which was simply this; “Don’t let anyone ever steal your peace, or take away your joy!”
I miss my friend, our simple conversations, discussions about the scholarship dinner planning and most of all, just finding a reason to smile or laugh. These simple seemingly commonplace things are the treasured things that one misses most when a friend passes. Nostalgia and reminiscing help to keep these moments alive in our hearts and serve as reminders of the good times. So, on this day March 18, 2021, I, as well as other I’m sure, will find a reason to laugh and smile as the memory of our dear friend pays us a visit. Thank you Ron for setting such a noble example for us to follow, and thank you so very much for being truly “exceptional”. Happy Birthday!!
Lo Vueno 