Rodger L. Gossett

Rodger L. Gossett, 86, of Vienna, passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026 at the VA Medical Center in Marion, Ill. 

Rodger was born May 7, 1939 the son of Robert Otis and Doris Grace (Richardson) Gossett in Eldorado, Ill.  He married Janice Faye Miller on Nov. 9, 1989 in Buncombe and she preceded him in death on March 4, 2017. 

Rodger proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1958 – 1963. His military service reflected his courage, dedication, and love of country, and he will be honored with military rites. 

He was a former Illinois State Police trooper and retired from Choate Developmental Center in Anna. 

For over 22 years he served as president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Association.  He and Janice loved to fish and he enjoyed hunting. 

Rodger is survived by his daughter Dawn LaPorte (Byron) of Webster, Texas, daughter Holly Gossett (Jeff Barber) of Stevensville, Maryland, son James Miller (Tammy) of Vienna.  Four grandchildren – Brittany Lynne Boyke, Christopher Andrew Boyke (Isabelle), Brennan Miller and Alex Miller. 

He is preceded in death by his Parents and Sister Connie. 

A service honoring the life of Rodger Gossett will be conducted Monday,  Feb. 23, 2026 at 11 am at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna.

Burial will be in the Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Murphysboro. Military honors will be accorded by members of the Anna VFW Carrol P. Foster Post #3455 and Marine Corp Burial Honors Unit.

Visitation was held Monday, Feb. 23, 2026 at the funeral home. 

Memorials may be made to Hospice at the VA Heartland Network-Marion VA Medical Center Pay.gov - VA Heartland Network: VISN 15 Donation Form.