Debra (“Debbie”) Neis Rogers

Debra (“Debbie”) Neis Rogers, nee Kelly, was born September 20, 1956, in Parkersburg, WV. She passed away unexpectedly on January 14, 2025. A beloved wife, mother, sister, friend, and community leader, Debbie will be greatly missed.

Debbie was a doting mother to her only son, Tony. She was so proud of all of Tony’s accomplishments and was his biggest cheerleader. Growing up, she never missed his sporting events, and her house was indisputably one of the ‘cool houses’ on the block, always open to all of Tony’s friends to stop by to hang out, grab a bite to eat, or play basketball in the driveway. Tony was her first phone call every morning, and she loved spending time with him, his wife Alicia, and her three beautiful grandchildren, Bryce, Norah and Wesley, who lovingly called her “Woo-Woo”.

Debbie married her soulmate, Danny, and together they created a beautiful life filled with so much love and laughter. They were an unmatched duo around town and served as a great example of what a successful marriage should look like. She was a devoted caregiver for Danny in his final years, and we take comfort knowing they are together again in Heaven, likely laughing as they dance to a Frank Sinatra song.

Debbie had a heart of gold, filled with compassion and a true desire to serve her community. She was a member of the Junior League of Parkersburg and Parkersburg Rotary Club, served on the board of directors for SW Resources for several years, was active with AMBUCS, and was always willing to volunteer her time to various organizations and those in need.

Debbie was a wonderful friend to so many and a constant source of strength and positivity. Anyone who met her was immediately charmed by her infectious smile and soft voice. Debbie had countless “best friends” because everyone was important to her, and she frequently made sure they knew that. She made you feel like you were the only person in the room when she sat down to chat with you. A testament to her fun-loving and charismatic personality, Debbie earned herself several nicknames, including “Doris” because of her striking resemblance to Doris Day and love of daisies, and “Louise,” as she was the other – and equally mischievous- half to “Thelma” (Sharon Lemley, her very dear and loyal lifetime friend).

Time spent with Debbie was always happy, uplifting, and fun. She was a social butterfly and never missed an opportunity to be with friends and family. She enjoyed traveling, especially to the beach, was an avid golfer, a voracious reader, a very impressive doodle artist, and loved playing cards with friends – you’ll never find a better Hand-and-Foot partner. Debbie’s life was well-lived and is peppered with countless happy memories and hilarious stories, all of which will live on for many years to come.

Debbie was an exceptional businesswoman, known for her honesty and impeccable work ethic. A 1974 graduate of Parkersburg High School, she began her career with Mountain State Blue Cross Blue Shield in March 1975, where she worked as a sales executive and account executive for thirty years before opening her own insurance agency, Rogers Insurance Agency. A trusted advisor to many individuals and businesses, Debbie loved her work and the many friendships and relationships she thoughtfully cultivated throughout her successful career.

She is survived by her son, Tony Hunt (Alicia), and her beautiful grandchildren, Bryce, Norah, and Wesley; sisters, Kimberly Kelly Trimble, Karie Sargent (Fred), Casey Miracle (Randy); and T.R. Hathaway (Sally), cousin. She is also survived by nephews, Jeff Matthews (Cynthia), Tyler Kelly, and Clifton Miracle; nieces, Kelly Matthews (Jeff), Megan Sargent (Justin), Lindsey Lanier (Justin), Caitlin Kelly, and Maggie Miracle; and fourteen great-nieces and great-nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband Danny Rogers; brother Greg Kelly (Patty); mother, Patricia Kelly; father, Greg Chapman; aunt, B.J. Hathaway; uncle, Tom Hathaway; cousin, Scott Hathaway; and nephew, Paul Sargent.

A Memorial Visitation will be held at Leavitt Funeral Home, Parkersburg on Monday, January 20th from 1:00-4:00 PM, with a reception to follow at J.P. Henry’s.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to AMBUCS – Parkersburg Chapter, 327 Dutch Ridge Road, Parkersburg, WV 26104.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.LeavittFuneralHome.com