Rogers is Rotarian of the Year

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William Edward “Eddie” Rogers, a pillar of both the local business and philanthropic communities, has been named Rotarian of the Year by the Rotary Club of Sparta.

At 72 years of age, Rogers’ recognition reflects more than three decades of service to both his business and his community, embodying the Rotary spirit of service above self.

Rogers was born March 27, 1952, in Sparta, to Edd and Billie Rogers. As the eldest son, Eddie grew up alongside his brother, Ronnie. Eddie’s lifelong connection to Sparta and White County began at an early age. He attended West Side Elementary School, East Sparta Elementary School, and White County High School, before attending Middle Tennessee State University.

In 1972, Eddie began working full-time at the family business, Edd Rogers Chevrolet, a staple in the Sparta automotive landscape since 1961. Following in his father’s footsteps, Eddie helped grow the business, which would later lead to his purchase of Valley Ford, in 1994 with support from his family. He continues to operate both businesses alongside his brother, Ronnie, continuing a family legacy that has spanned over six decades.

While Eddie’s career has been rooted in the automotive industry, it is his contributions to the community that have earned him the prestigious Rotarian of the Year honor. Eddie joined the Rotary Club of Sparta, in 1990, and, for 34 years, he has been a sustaining member. For over 30 years, he has chaired the club’s Rotary Scholarship Program, helping countless students pursue higher education opportunities.

“Eddie is a hometown boy who has been a dedicated Rotarian since 1990,” said John Hunter, a fellow Rotarian and long-time member of the Sparta club. “Eddie has dutifully chaired the Rotary Scholarship Program for over 30 years. He deserves Rotarian of the Year for his devotion to our community and his desire to make Sparta the best it can be.”

Eddie’s commitment extends beyond his local Rotary Club. He has served on the Board of Directors for the Tennessee Automotive Association (TAA) since 2000, and, in 2014, he was elected to the Executive Board. He was elected and served as the TAA’s Chairman in 2018 and 2019, and he continues to serve on its Executive Board. In 2021, Eddie was also elected as one of seven members of the Executive Board of Directors for the Tennessee Automotive Association Self Insurers Trust, a role he continues to hold today.

Eddie and his wife, Elaine, whom he married in 1982, are active members of First Baptist Church in Sparta. They have two children, Shane and wife Kayla Rogers and Stacey and husband Jarrod Underhill, and four grandsons: Lane Rogers, Levi Rogers, Easton Underhill, and Colton Underhill. Eddie and Elaine’s family remains deeply connected to Sparta, where Eddie has lived his entire life.

In addition to his business and civic achievements, Eddie is also a motorcycle enthusiast, a passion that aligns with his adventurous spirit and love for the open road. But it’s his selfless contributions to the community and kindness that have left the most lasting impression on those who know him.

Eddie’s award as Rotarian of the Year is a testament to his decades of service, leadership, and dedication to improving his hometown. Whether through his work in business, his leadership in the Rotary Club, or his unwavering support for local youth, Eddie Rogers remains a cornerstone of Sparta.

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