Mr. Roger James Nabors

Roger J. Nabors departed this life on November 19, 2011 while at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo, MI. Roger was born December 22, 1950 and was the fifth child of nine born to the late Clarence and Kathleen Nabors in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Roger gave his life to Lord under the leadership of Rev. Roberson at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church. Roger was an excellent Usher on the Galilee Senior Usher Board, where he faithfully served for 20 years, until his health began to hinder him from fulfilling his duties. Roger was also active in sports, having gained letters for football and excelling in track, where he was known for his speed and talent in running the low hurdle event, while attending Kalamazoo Central H.S. Roger carried his athleticism as an adult, playing competitive softball for many years and was also an outstanding bowler. Roger was enlisted in the United States Army from 1972-1973 and was stationed in Korea for a tour of duty as a Medical Specialist. Roger was employed with Kalamazoo County where he worked as a Fireman for many years. Upon leaving the Kalamazoo Fire Department, he was employed with J. O. Galloup until he was unable to physically work any longer. Roger was and is known for his love for everyone, his comical behavior, brightening lives with his charisma and drawing people with his warming smile. Before Roger’s illness took its toll, you could find him on the dance floor of ballrooms across the states, dancing from the first song to the very last, stepping, bopping, swirling, dipping and gliding with ease, as if he were a dancer on skates. Roger was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, friend and co-worker who was loved and admired by all that knew him. He leaves to mourn his passing and celebrate his home going, two daughters, Maria Smith of Southfield, MI and Erika Thompson of Charlotte, N.C., one son, Erik Nabors of Kalamazoo, MI. Four granddaughters, Cachet Colvard, Kennedi Smith, Cameron Smith and Rhiley Gripper and one grandson Khalil Smith. Five sisters, Janice Crutcher, Portage, MI, Carol Nabors, Kalamazoo, MI, Bobbie Nabors, Nashville, TN, Kathie (Damond) Chenault , Kalamazoo, MI and Karen (William) Jackson, Seattle, WA. Two brothers, Douglass (Sandra) Nabors, of Laquey, MO and Michael (Sydni) Nabors of Bloomfield Hills, MI. He also leaves a host of nephews, nieces, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and a special aunt, Madge Taylor. Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Kathleen Nabors and his oldest sister, Madge Tucker.

Mr. Roger James Nabors

December 22, 1950 - November 19, 2011