Brian L. Rogers of Allenhurst NJ and Naples, FL passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of March 2, 2017. He died after a brief illness in exactly the manner in which he preferred, simply and quietly, and knowing how very loved he was.

Brian was born in Orange, NJ and raised in Vailsburg. He graduated Seton Hall Prep where he later received a commendation honoring his commitment to the catholic education of his 7 sons, all of whom graduated from the Prep. He received both his Bachelor of Science degree and his Master of Science degree in Business from Seton Hall University. In 1948, he enlisted in the Air Force and served his country for 4 years in Japan during the Korean War. Upon his return home, he married the love of his life, Mary Catherine Fagan (Mair) whom he had dated since high school. Brian began his long distinguished career in the insurance industry and retired after 30 years with Sentry Insurance where he received numerous awards and accolades.

He was a communicant of St. Michaels Church in Long Branch, NJ and San Marco Church in Marco Island, Fl. He was a member of Spring Lake Golf Club, Spring Lake, NJ, Deal Golf & Country Club, Deal, NJ, and Fiddlers Creek Golf Club, Naples, FL. He was a former member of Essex County Country Club, West Orange, NJ.

Brian, or Pop as he was known to his family, was a devout catholic, a voracious reader, and an avid golfer. He loved his family and his home. Brian could often be found in his cabana at the Allenhurst Beach Club or on the greens of Spring Lake Golf Club. His happiest times were spent with his friends from the SLGC lunch group and his family at his beloved Allenhurst home where his favorite pastime was relaxing on the front porch. The sight of Pop sitting in his chair was a welcome invitation to all who passed by to come join him for a cocktail and conversation. All who knew him will remember him in his familiar resting pose: reclining with his legs crossed, his left hand over his heart and his right hand holding his gin on the rocks.

He will be sincerely missed by all who came to know him and whose lives he touched with his kindness. His legacy will always be making people feel as though they were part of his family. No matter how large his family already was, there was always room for one more. He especially delighted in bringing his grandchildren to his "candy store" which was a giant jar of candy that he always kept fully stocked.

Brian was predeceased by his two sons Robert and John, his parents Thomas J. Rogers and Margaret M. Clements Rogers, his brother Thomas J. Rogers, Jr. and his grandson Christopher John Rogers, Jr. He was also predeceased by his devoted Irish Setter, Sunny. Together with his bride of 64 years, they brought 7 daughters and 9 sons into the world. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Catherine Fagan Rogers and his 14 beloved children: Mary Catherine Mahon (John), Eileen Gilmore (Robert), Maureen Rawson (Greg), Anne Gruner (Larry), Patricia McDonnell (Peter), Brian Rogers (Cathy), Kevin Rogers (Maryann), Mary Josephine Rogers, Midge Leys (Kevin), Dennis Rogers (Liz), James Rogers (Angela), Stephen Rogers (Jen), Christopher (Michelle), and Greg (Marybeth). He is also survived by 43 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren as well as his sister Peggy St. George (Jack) and his brother Jerry Rogers (Betty) and his many beloved nieces and nephews.

Pop's chair is vacant now and his candy store is closed but our hearts are full and the memories are sweet. He honored his family in the manner in which lived his life. We are forever grateful for the lifetime of lessons he taught us.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in the name of "Brian L. Rogers" to Seton Hall Preparatory School. Donations may be sent to 120 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052 Attn. Msgr. Michael Kelly, or may be made online www.shp.org/giving.

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