Margie Rogers has transformed her retirement into a vibrant chapter of community service on Cape Haze, Florida. Now serving as the lower lightkeeper at the historic Range Light, she dedicates her time to various local initiatives, including the Port Boca Grande Lighthouses and Lullabies children’s program. Her commitment to volunteerism reflects a lifelong passion for helping others rather than a mere post-career pastime.
Rogers, originally from Salem, Ohio, has experienced a life filled with movement. “I was an Army brat,” she shared, although most of her childhood was spent in Ohio. Over the years, her family gradually migrated south to Florida, planting the seeds for Rogers and her husband, Jim Rogers, to consider relocating after retirement.
“We said when we retired that we wanted to go somewhere warm,” she recalled, reflecting on Jim’s initial hesitance. “Then out of the blue one day, he said, ‘Yeah, I could live in Florida.’” Their decision to move was solidified by the appeal of escaping snowy winters.
Teaching Career and Technological Innovations
Before settling in Cape Haze, Rogers built a diverse career in education. She initially trained as an x-ray technician, entering the field straight out of high school. After several years in hospitals and at Ohio State University, she shifted her focus and obtained a degree in English and elementary education.
Her interest in technology flourished during her teaching career, long before digital literacy became standard in schools. “I was the young teacher when I started teaching,” she explained, noting the limited resources available at the time. “We had a couple of computers on the cart you’d wheel into a classroom, and everybody would use one computer.”
After moving to El Paso, Texas, she earned a master’s degree in instructional technology from the University of Texas El Paso. This period was significant for her family as she and Jim adopted their two daughters, Yvette and Mayra, 27 years ago. Today, Yvette lives in Springfield, Missouri, and Mayra resides in Kansas City.
Rogers spent 18 years as a technology teacher, integrating early digital tools into classrooms and assisting fellow educators in navigating the evolving educational landscape. Eventually, she accepted a position within the education division of the Discovery Channel, where she supported teachers in utilizing digital resources. This role allowed her to transition from traditional teaching and pursue her passion for instructional innovation.
Volunteering and Community Engagement
Once settled in Oyster Creek, Florida, Rogers sought volunteer opportunities that aligned with her interests and skills. A connection with the Barrier Island Parks Society (BIPS) in 2020 led her to become a volunteer lightkeeper at the Range Light. Although tours have paused due to ongoing restoration, Rogers remains a prominent figure at BIPS, particularly during children’s events.
“They’ve kind of picked me up as being one of their featured story readers,” she noted, referring to her role in the Port Boca Grande Lighthouses and Lullabies program. “It’s fun to do that and work with the little kids.”
Rogers’ volunteer work extends beyond the lighthouse. She previously assisted with the Hermitage Artist Retreat until programs were limited by Hurricane Ian and has volunteered as an usher for performances at the Military Heritage Museum. “I would find concerts that looked interesting and volunteer to be an usher,” she explained.
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,” she stated. “They are always looking for drivers or runners. I’m a runner and I have my friend who’s the driver, although I do sometimes drive.”
Rogers also maintains a small teaching schedule, offering private tutoring to several students. “Failed retirement,” she joked, a phrase coined by her sister, which she embraces with pride.
Through her extensive volunteer work, Rogers has embraced a slower pace of life while fostering a strong sense of community in Boca Grande and Englewood. Whether reading to children beneath the lighthouse, sharing the history of Range Light with visitors, or delivering meals to local residents, her service has become an integral part of her life in Florida.
