Obituaries

Virginia “Ginger” Alice Rodgers passed away on Saturday, March 22nd, 2025, at Sylvan Crossing Memory Care in Fitchburg, Wisconsin. Ginger was born on January 31, 1936, in Doucette, Texas. She was the third of four daughters of Virgie and Herman Pennington.

She married William Newton Rodgers, Jr on August 26, 1953. They loved to travel and spent almost sixty years traveling the world together. During this time, she raised two sons, Micheil and Timothy.

Ginger’s passion was sewing. Her skills included sewing, quilting and embroidering. She was always interested in the latest technology. She enjoyed attending and participating in any (and all) quilt shows, craft fairs, and sewing expos. She loved teaching others how to sew, both individually and in classes. In fact, she would impart her knowledge to all who would listen! Later she was involved in leading various sewing endeavors for charity.

Ginger had a fondness for owls. She loved to collect anything to do with them. Walking into her home was always a hoot seeing all the new figurines, stuffed animals and paintings of owls on the walls.

Ginger is preceded in death by her parents, Virgie and Herman Pennington; her sisters, Bobbie, Maxine, and Sue; her husband Bill; and her son, Micheil.

Ginger is survived by her son, Tim (Dora); 5 granddaughters (Charlotte, Marisa, Courtney (Jesse), Mela, and Molly); and many great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Ginger will be laid to rest later this year in a private family graveside service at Colmesneil City Cemetery in Colmesneil, Texas. In lieu of flowers or cards, the family requests donations to the Agrace Foundation at https://www.agrace.org/donate

“It Takes A Village"

We've heard the phrase most often applied to raising children, but “It takes a village” can definitely be applied as well to caring for people at the opposite end of the age spectrum. In either case, the “village” emphasizes the importance of family and community as key elements necessary for promoting a healthy person.

With that in mind, a heartfelt Thank You to the village that has cared for and supported Ginger and her family over these last several years of her declining health. All her friends, physicians, care teams, and the assisted living facilities in which she has resided since 2019. A special thank you to Agrace Hospice Care, Mychoice Wisconsin, and Westwood Christian Church.

Life is a journey and meant to be shared. We are truly grateful to all who shared in Ginger’s journey. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

5701 Odana Road

608-274-1000