Submitted by the Rutherford Community Blood Bank
November 4 Blood Drive to Celebrate the Life of Jean Ellen Rogers
What is the lifeblood of a community? Volunteerism and service are certainly essential components and representative of the life of long-time Rutherford resident, Jean Ellen Rogers (1926 - 2023). The Rutherford Community Blood Bank will honor Jean at their next blood drive on November 4, 2024, from 1 to 7 pm, at 55 Kip Center.
Jean lived in Rutherford for nearly 90 years. She was a former educator in the Wood-Ridge school system. Before becoming a teacher, she worked in textbook marketing for a couple of book publishers. Jean was also involved with the Community of God’s Love and a parishioner of the Church of St. Mary in Rutherford, and was actively involved in the Lazarus Ministry, their Bereavement Support Group, the Altar Society, and involved as a Eucharistic Minister, Linda Verdino, who served in the Lazarus Ministry with Jean and brought her communion every week for two years, said, “She was just the kind of person you loved being with.”
In her later years, she enjoyed socializing with her friends and family, which included her eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. It was also in her later years, in 1992, that she joined the Rutherford Community Blood Bank as a Director. She served for over two decades, literally participating in the lifeblood of Rutherford. “Jean was a special person, sincerely committed to helping others,” said Joan Tidona, a long-time director with the Blood Bank.
“Giving was a family strength for Jean and her family. She had brothers in the service, and one brother, Father Dan, was a Maryknoll Missionary,” said her daughter, Marybeth Rogers. Jean gave back to the community, whether it was through religion, the Blood Bank, or being a great friend.
Please mark your calendar to give blood on the 4th and vote on the 5th in honor of Jean.
To schedule an appointment online, visit this link.
Donors under 18 years of age must bring a completed parental permission form found here.
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