Sharon Lee Rodgers: A Life of Dedication and Love


Sharon Lee Rodgers, born June 16, 1939, in Burns, Oregon, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2025, in Oregon City, Oregon. Her life was a testament to dedication, love, and community service, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew her.


Sharon is survived by her devoted husband Gil Rodgers of Oregon City, Oregon; her beloved children, daughter Cynthia Graves (Ray) of Madison, West Virginia; son Mark Hannaford (Tami) of Lincoln City, Oregon; daughter Marcie Carter (Rob) of Salem, Oregon; son Rich Rodgers (Cyndi) of Rosharon, Texas; 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and many siblings, nieces, and nephews, who will forever hold her memory close.


Sharon spent the majority of her adult life in Oregon City, where she was a pillar of the community. After retirement, she and Gil embraced their love for travel as snowbirds, spending winters in Palm Desert, California, where Sharon enjoyed golfing almost every day. Her commitment to her community was unwavering; she was an active resident in Oregon City and Clackamas County for many years. Sharon's passion for nurturing young minds was evident in her role as a Camp Fire Girls scoutmaster and as President of the PTA at Park Place Elementary School, where she initiated an annual fundraising bazaar. Her leadership and dedication earned her the title of Clackamas County Junior First Citizen.


Education was a cornerstone of Sharon's life. While raising her children, she pursued higher education at Clackamas Community College, Marylhurst University, and Lewis & Clark College, ultimately earning her Master's Degree. Her career in education began at Oregon City High School, her alma mater, where she taught from 1976, served as Vice Principal from 1984 to 1989, and led as Principal from 1990 to 1997. Her impact on students and colleagues alike was profound and lasting.


A passionate Oregon Ducks fan, Sharon's enthusiasm for sports was infectious. She attended numerous football and basketball games in Eugene and traveled across the country to cheer on her team at bowl games with Gil and her children. One memorable family story recounts Sharon's fearless intervention in "the rumble," where she bravely stepped in to break up a fight at a bowl game, embodying her indomitable spirit and protective nature.


Sharon's life will be celebrated on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Hillside Chapel, 1306 7th Street, Oregon City. Her family invites all who knew her to join in honoring her remarkable life.


In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Oregon City High School reflecting Sharon's lifelong commitment to education and community service. Her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who follow in her footsteps.
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