Melvin Verell Rogers, 87, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, formerly of Doniphan, Missouri, died Thursday, August 2, 2012, at Cedargate Nursing Home in Poplar Bluff.

Mr. Rogers, son of I. O. and Ethel (Gladden) Rogers, was born August 16, 1924, in Ripley County, Missouri. He had been an executive director of the United States Department of Agriculture. Mr. Rogers was a member of the Lions Club, Cattleman Association, Producers Association, Poplar Bluff American Legion #153 and the Fairview Church of God, Faith of Abraham. He maintained a cattle farm during his employment and enjoyed raising cattle, hunting and fishing after retirement. Mr. Rogers was a veteran of the U. S. Army, having served during World War II.

Due to failing health, he moved to Poplar Bluff in 1998.

He was married to Dolly Duff at Fredricktown, Missouri, on November 21, 1982. She survives.

Also surviving are two stepsons, Gary (and Pam) Duff of Waynesville, Missouri, and Quentin (and Diana) Duff of Poplar Bluff; two sisters, Piccola Crader of Cedar Hill, Missouri, and Alice (and David) Wingo of Rogersville, Missouri; four grandchildren, Brandon Duff, Stefanie Duff, Ashley Duff and Courtney Duff; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, I. O. and Ethel Rogers, two sisters, Loriana Sullivan and Ruby Rogers, and three brothers, Mansel Rogers, Kenneth Rogers, Alvin Loyd Rogers.

Visitation will be held Friday evening, August 3, 2012, from 5 – 8 p.m. at the Edwards Funeral Home in Doniphan. The funeral service will take place Saturday afternoon, August 4, 2012, at 2:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with burial to be in the Fairdealing Cemetery.