Dr. Marita C. Rogers PhD

Dr. Marita C. Rogers Ph.D., age 80 of Riverside OH, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton. She was born March 3, 1945, in Yauco, Puerto Rico, the daughter of the late Angel and Consuelo (Nasario) Antonini.

She lived an extraordinary life characterized by her dedication to education, the church, her compassion for others, and her infectious spirit that brought joy to those around her.

Dr. Rogers earned her Ph.D. from the Ohio State University, and later served as a professor at Wright State University for 12 years, sharing her knowledge and passion with her students. Prior to her academic career, she devoted many years to social work, where her commitment to helping others flourished. In addition to her professional roles, Dr. Rogers was an active nursery volunteer and an AWANA instructor at her church, also serving on various committees, investing her time and energy in the community and the lives of children and young adults.

Known for her kind and welcoming personality, Marita had an innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Her vibrant energy could light up any room, and her presence left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She was not only a dedicated educator and mentor but also a devoted wife and mother, taking great pride in her family. Marita cherished her husband and was immensely proud of her son and daughter-in-law, with whom she shared a close relationship throughout their lives.

Travel was a passion for Marita. She enjoyed returning to her roots in Puerto Rico with her husband and travelling extensively with her family, where they shared countless memories together. During her leisure time, she found solace in reading, studying the Bible, and indulging in British comedies, which brought her laughter and joy.

Marita will be remembered not only for her professional accomplishments but also for her compassion, kindness, and the enduring connections she made throughout her life. Her spirit will continue to inspire those she touched, leaving a lasting imprint on their hearts.

In addition to her parents, Marita is preceded in death by a sister, Ada; and two brothers, Jorge and Angel “Cucho.” She is survived by her devoted husband of 59 years, Levy “Lee” Rogers; son, Gary (Kendra) Rogers; brother, Ramon “Bertin” (Doris); nieces & nephews, Yatska, Etiony, Nedil (Susan), Nitska (Keven), Jessica, Sandrita, Jorgito; extended family and dear friends.

Friends and community members are invited to join in celebrating her remarkable life and the profound impact she had on those who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held at 3:00 P.M., Sunday, May 4, 2025, at the Spinning Road Baptist Church, 538 Spinning Road, Riverside, OH 45424, Pastor Scott Goodman, celebrant. In lieu of flowers the family asks that one consider a memorial contribution to the Spinning Road Baptist Church and/or Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton in Marita’s memory. Arrangements in care of Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, Fairborn, OH.