Rodger L. Borders

Rodger Lee Borders II, of Tipton, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 19, 2026 after a hard fought battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Rodger was born on November 15, 1958 in Marion, Indiana to his parents, Rodger Lee Borders and Grace Mae (Messler) Borders-Hannah. He graduated from Marion High School in the class of 1977. Rodger then went on to earn his degree in Education from Ball State University. In the midst of earning his degree he worked for Munsons Pontiac in Marion. This is the place Rodger met the love of his life, Barbara Hardacre. At first Barbara was not interested, but it didn't take long for Rodger to win her over with his charm. On their third date Rodger asked her to marry him. Rodger and Barbara were married on May 5, 1979. The two have enjoyed nearly 47 years of marriage, and are so grateful for the life they shared together. 

Rodger and Barbara started their family soon after getting married. He worked a full time job during the day and attended classes at night to earn his Bachelor's Degree. Rodger began his teaching career at Jefferson Elementary in Tipton. He applied to several schools, picking districts randomly around him. Tipton was the one that called, and how fortunate that turned out to be. After several years of teaching Rodger went back to school once again and earned his Master's Degree. His work ethic was impeccable, and it shaped his life with purpose. Rodger was an incredible teacher and mentor, leaving a lasting impact on countless young people who were lucky enough to learn from him. 

In addition to teaching, Rodger devoted much of his time to coaching volleyball, basketball, and baseball. Baseball was his passion for sure! He was an avid collector, with a particular love for baseball cards, and his enthusiasm for the game extended far beyond the field. He proudly visited every Major League park in the United States. He even visited the League's Canadian team in Toronto, creating memories that reflected his sense of adventure. 

Rodger was also a huge movie buff! He cherished fun times spent with his family. Whether it was a double matinee or a dusk till dawn trip to the drive-in, he had a special way of bringing joy and fun into every moment. As a father, he taught his children discipline and they always knew the depth of his love. They respected him greatly, and his wife adored him. Later in life, Rodger found tremendous joy in being a grandfather. He proudly embraced that role with his whole heart. Rodger was a member of Mier Community Church in Converse. His faith was the guiding foundation in his life. 

Rodger also enjoyed traveling, especially cruising and exploring new places. Among his many adventures he was able to visit Alaska and Hawaii. Hands down, Hawaii held a special place in his heart. He was captivated by its beauty, but even more so by the amazing memories he created with his beautiful wife. Rodger was deeply loved by so many. He will be remembered for his dedication, his passion for life, and the impact he made in his community!

Those left to carry on Rodger’s legacy of love are his wife, Barbara Borders; children, Rodger Lee Borders III (Tricia), Jessica Lynn Borders (Ryan Holshouser). Brent Borders (Shelda); grandchildren, Kyndyl Borders (Isaac Jones), Aidan Borders, Isaac Borders, Luke Borders, Caleb Borders, siblings, Valorie Thorpe (Timothy), Cole “Drew” Borders (Kala), Denise Borders; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Rodger was welcomed into Heaven by his parents, Rodger Borders and Grace Borders-Hannah; and his in-laws, Charles and Natalia Hardacre.  

A funeral service celebrating Rodger’s life will be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home, located at 314 N. Main St. in Tipton, IN with Pastor Brad Grubb officiating. Visitation for family and friends will take place at the funeral home on Monday, March 23, 2026 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Tuesday, March 24, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Interment will be held immediately following the service at Gardens of Memory, located at 11201 S. Marion Rd. 35 in Marion, IN with Pastor Bob Couch officiating. 

Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Borders family in their time of need. Please feel free to leave an online condolence or share a special memory of Rodger with his family on his tribute wall.   

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