Margie Rogers has turned her retirement into a vibrant chapter of community service on Cape Haze, Florida. As the lower lightkeeper at the historic Range Light, she dedicates her time to various local organizations and initiatives, including the Port Boca Grande Lighthouses and Lullabies program. For Rogers, volunteering is not merely a pastime; it is a continuation of her lifelong commitment to helping others.
Rogers, who spent her formative years primarily in Salem, Ohio, experienced a childhood marked by numerous relocations due to her father’s military career. “I was an Army brat,” she recalled, “but I was settled in Ohio for most of my childhood.” Over the years, much of her extended family migrated to Florida, laying the groundwork for Rogers and her husband, Jim, to eventually follow suit. “When we retired, we wanted to go somewhere warm,” she explained. After some initial hesitation from Jim, they made the move, trading snow shovels for sunshine.
Before relocating to Cape Haze, Rogers enjoyed a distinguished career in education. She initially trained as an x-ray technician, a profession she embraced straight out of high school. After several years in the medical field, she pivoted to teaching, earning a degree in English and elementary education. Her career took a significant turn when she developed an interest in educational technology, a field that would later define much of her professional life.
While living in El Paso, she earned a master’s degree in instructional technology from the University of Texas El Paso. It was here that she and Jim adopted their two daughters, Yvette and Mayra, marking a pivotal moment for their family. Today, Yvette lives in Springfield, Missouri, with her 11-year-old son, and Mayra resides in Kansas City.
Rogers spent nearly two decades as a technology teacher, introducing early digital tools into classrooms long before they became ubiquitous. “I was the young teacher when I started teaching,” she said. “They let me handle the computers.” Her expertise in instructional technology led her to a role in the education division of the Discovery Channel, where she supported educators in integrating digital resources into their teaching. This position allowed her to maintain flexibility while transitioning away from traditional classroom roles.
The couple eventually settled in Oyster Creek, drawn to the community’s charm and proximity to the beach. “It’s a little town with lots of things going on,” said Rogers. “People are friendly, and we just kind of fell in love.”
Once established in Florida, Rogers sought volunteer opportunities that resonated with her skills and passions. In 2020, a connection with the Barrier Island Parks Society (BIPS) led her to become a volunteer lightkeeper at the Range Light. Although restoration efforts have paused tours, she remains a familiar presence at BIPS, particularly during children’s events. “They’ve kind of picked me up as being one of their featured story readers,” she noted, expressing her enjoyment in sharing stories with young children.
Rogers’ volunteer activities extend beyond the lighthouse. She has previously volunteered with the Hermitage Artist Retreat until programming was limited by Hurricane Ian. Additionally, she has served as an usher for musical performances at the Military Heritage Museum, where she selects concerts that pique her interest.
One of her most consistent commitments is with Englewood Meals on Wheels, where she delivers meals every Friday. “I do Meals on Wheels every Friday,” Rogers stated, adding that she often helps as a runner alongside her friend, who drives. She also tutors several students, maintaining a small teaching schedule that complements her extensive volunteer work. “Failed retirement,” she joked, referring to a phrase coined by her sister, which she embraces with pride.
Through her numerous volunteer endeavors, Rogers expresses gratitude for the slower pace and community spirit she and Jim have found in Boca Grande and Englewood. Whether reading to children at the lighthouse, sharing its history, or delivering meals to local residents, her commitment to service has become a vital part of her life in Florida. As she continues to contribute to her community, Margie Rogers exemplifies how retirement can be a time for impactful engagement rather than withdrawal.
