Friday, April 11, 2025, Franklin lost a legend and pillar of the community. Calvin Rodger Robinson, known by all simply as Rodger, was called home to his heavenly reward at the age of 89. He was a resident of Franklin since 1957.
Rodger was born in Vernon, Louisiana on Feb. 10, 1936. The youngest of four children born to the union of Thomas and Gertrude Robinson, Rodger was raised in Chatham, LA where he was a graduate of Chatham High School. Stricken with Polio at 9 years old, he had to learn at an early age to face difficulties in life head on and to make the best of what came his way, and that’s just what he did, learning to walk with braces early on and then progressing to crutches when his legs became paralyzed.
He went on to pursue his passion to be a teacher by attending Northeast Louisiana State College (now University of Louisiana at Monroe) where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Following college he relocated to Franklin to begin his teaching career. Once in Franklin, Rodger met his future bride, Marguerite Peterson, who was also a teacher. The two were married on August 15, 1962, marriage vows that were held close to their hearts and has stood the test of time.
A man accustomed to overcoming challenges, Rodger exuded confidence though he was a very humble man. A devoted and compassionate educator with 31 years of dedicated service, his teaching career began at Crowell Elementary School in Franklin, where he taught 8th grade on the third floor no less. Up and down three flights of stairs multiple times a day on crutches only made him stronger in every sense of the word. Once Franklin High School was built he moved there to teach History and Speech. He was instrumental in the development of the Thespian Society and National Honor Society at Franklin High and was regarded as one the most beloved teachers in the community. Galileo stated “You cannot teach a man anything, you can only help him find it within himself.” Rodger didn’t just pour knowledge into his students, he poured his all, planting seeds of potential, resilience, strength, and wisdom.
Graced with a perfect “radio voice,” and being an avid sports fan, Rodger also served as the longtime announcer for the Franklin High football games. His passion for sports was a lifelong love, especially the Saints, the Pelicans, and any and all LSU Sports. His positive and soothing voice was also a perfect fit for the local Franklin radio station, KFRA, where he worked as a DJ for many years, simultaneously while teaching. Following the closing of KFRA and his retirement from teaching, he would go on to co-host Teche Talk, a local TV news program, with his beloved wife serving as the roaming camerawoman. A gifted speaker, Rodger had the ability to carry on a conversation with virtually anyone and make you feel as if you were the only one in the room, not to mention the most important. He knew the importance of a firm handshake, looking someone straight in the eyes when speaking with them, and dressing for the occasion, as he was rarely seen without a suit and tie.
We would be remiss if we did not mention the importance of his faith in God the Almighty was throughout his life. One can only deduce that the love of a teacher can only come from the Creator who is love. He was a faithful and active member of First United Methodist Church in Franklin, where he and his beloved bride were married and where he served in many capacities.
Rodger was a beloved son, brother, husband, teacher, and friend. Those he leaves to cherish his memory include his devoted and loving wife of 62 and a half years, Marguerite Peterson Robinson; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, colleagues, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas D. Robinson Sr. and Gertrude Crowell Robinson; his brother, Thomas D. Robinson Jr.; and his sisters, Monette Robinson Swanzy and Patsy Robinson McDuffie.
The family requests visiting hours be observed Thursday, April 17th, at First United Methodist Church in Franklin from 10:00 AM until time of services. Funeral services celebrating his life will begin at 1:00 PM, with Rev. Milton Bourque officiating and Rev. Susan Pugh assisting. Following services he will be laid to rest in the Franklin Cemetery Mausoleum.
Memorial contributions may be made to Rodger’s church, First United Methodist Church, 920 Main Street, Franklin, LA 70538.
We encourage those who knew Rodger to leave memories and upload photos to the memorial page, celebrating and remembering the life of this incredible man, who touched so many lives with his dedication, compassion, and humility.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Ibert’s Mortuary, Inc., 1007 Main Street, Franklin, LA 70538, (337) 828-5426.