Erick L. Rogers

With profound love and deep sorrow, we celebrate the life and legacy of Erick Rogers, a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, significant other, and friend - whose presence was a true blessing to all who knew him. Born on April 18, 1967, in Dothan, Alabama, Erick was a man of extraordinary talent, unwavering faith, and unmatched generosity. From an early age, his gifts were evident. As an All-State competitive drummer during his high school years in Dothan, he demonstrated discipline, creativity, and a passion for excellence that would define his life’s journey. He continued his education at Cal State Hayward, carrying with him the same drive to succeed.

Erick’s life was rooted in faith. A lifelong member of North Highland Baptist Church, he leaned on his relationship with God as his foundation, guiding his steps and shaping his character. His faith was not only something he spoke of - but it was also something he lived daily through his actions, kindness, and service to others. He began his professional career working with Comcast, laying underground cable, but Erick’s entrepreneurial spirit could not be contained. He went on to build his own successful business, providing underground cable, sprinkler system installations, and home improvement services across the United States. His work ethic was unmatched, disciplined, driven, and far beyond his years. Yet it was in the kitchen where Erick’s soul truly came alive.  Inspired by his late grandmother, Gussie Rogers, Erick discovered his passion for cooking - a passion that would become his life’s calling. As the proud owner and chef of The Bistro Southern Cafeteria, The Bistro Express, A1 Barbecue, and The Bistro, Erick rose to become a renowned and celebrated chef across Florida and Alabama. He opened and managed multiple restaurants with the support of Cassandra and their staff, reflecting his creativity, excellence, and love for people. His top priority was celebrating diversity, catering to teachers, first responders, contractors, veterans and all.

His culinary talent earned him recognition as a top chef in Panama City Living Magazine, and in 2025, his restaurant was honored as Best Restaurant in the Bay in Panama City, Florida. But for Erick, cooking was never just about awards, it was about people. His food was more than nourishment; it was comfort, connection, and love. Many described his meals as “food for the soul.”  Erick’s generosity knew no bounds. He was a pillar in his community, feeding countless individuals experiencing hardship—not for recognition, but simply out of the goodness of his heart. Through hurricanes and storms that tested Florida, Erick’s restaurants endured, grounded in his faith, resilience, and commitment to serve others. Beyond the kitchen, Erick was a source of encouragement to many. He carried wisdom beyond his years and freely shared it, uplifting spirits and inspiring those around him to believe in themselves. He was humble, kind, gifted, and creative—a man who truly loved everyone.

Even as he battled illness, Erick continued to work, serve, and give, demonstrating remarkable strength and dedication until the very end. Now, he rests peacefully in the arms of the Lord. Erick was preceded in death by his loving grandparents, Jadell and Gussie Rogers. He leaves to cherish his memory with his loving mother Montraler Sudduth (The Late Norvin Sudduth); his devoted siblings, John Hardin and Montrail Tavernier (Roger Tavernier); his significant other (Cassandra Simpson); his beloved sons (Prince Rogers (Jessica Rogers), Jalyn Rogers, and Aubrey Rogers); and his cherished grandchildren, Autumn and Khadyn Rogers. He also leaves behind his two loving aunts (Mary Epperson (The Late Rufus Epperson); Bobby Rogers (The Late Jodell Rogers) and proceeds aunt/uncle (The Late Leola & Late Fred Daniels) along with a host of nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends. We also want to acknowledge the staff of Southern Bistro who helped him bring his dream to fruition.

Erick Rogers lived a life of purpose, passion, and profound impact. His legacy will live on in every life he touched, every meal he prepared, and every act of kindness he extended. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit will forever remain in our hearts. “Well done, good and faithful servant Erick Rogers.”

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