Julian Marshall Rogers Jr., son of the late Julian Marshall Rogers Sr. and Barbara Rogers, was born on March 14, 1951 in Newark, New Jersey. Julian, affectionately known to all who loved him as Chuck, transitioned to his heavenly home on April 3, 2024.

Chuck's early education took place in the Essex County Public School System in the town of Bloomfield, NJ. He attended Demarest Elementary School, North Junior High School, and graduated from Bloomfield High School in 1969. As a naturally gifted athlete, it was no surprise that he would lead his varsity high school football team to victory as a defensive end. What began as a childhood pastime would inspire his lifelong devotion to the game, resulting in him being a season ticket holder with his favorite team, the New York Giants.

Later in his teen years, he became a baptized member of New Light Baptist Church, also in Bloomfield.

Following his high school graduation, Chuck attended the Community College of Baltimore in Baltimore, Maryland. It was on a visit to the campus of Morgan State University in September of 1970 that he would meet the girl who would become his wife and soulmate, Brenda Burley. Three years later, Chuck and Brenda were wed on August 24, 1973 in Maryland. They were happily married for over 50 years as of 2023. From this union, a daughter and son were born, and Chuck effortlessly fell into his calling as a beloved husband, father, protector and provider.

In December of 1973, Chuck graduated from the City of East Orange's Police Academy. Given his staunch dedication to his call of duty, he gradually worked his way up the East Orange Police Force from beat patrol to motorized patrol to task force then eventually head of security for Mayor Cardell Cooper. By the time of his retirement, he had achieved the rank of Detective Sergeant. Since his training as a motorized officer, he has never been without a motorcycle of his own. As a huge travel enthusiast, he attended many rallies over the years and took several cross-country trips with his friends, family and motorcyle crew. To know Chuck is to know his love of the open road and the rush of wind at his back.

A genuine renaissance man, Chuck had a multitude of varied and unique interests. In addition to his avid passion for sports, motorcycles and advocating for the interests of his community, he was also incredibly devoted to politics, social justice, fitness, aquatic life, hunting, music, fishing and literature; Chuck was such an avid reader. The perfect harmony of brains and brawn that he was, he collected stacks upon stacks of books. As soon as he'd read a collection of books, he'd go straight to Barnes and Noble to buy more.

He always kept up with politics and could debate the most crucial topics of the day with the best of them.
He adored jazz music in particular and was a patron of WBGO jazz station. As a proud Pisces man, he tended to his pet fish and aquarium with unwavering consistency and care. He was a jack of all trades and a Past Master of Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Saint John #43.

Chuck's spectacular qualities were as endless as his appearance was ageless. Due to his towering stature and indomitable spirit, he was known by the moniker of 'Hightower' to all of those who revered him. His larger-than-life presence and sonorous voice always commanded the utmost respect. An innate extrovert, he was often the life of the party, deeply admired for his sparkling personality and wicked sense of humor. These traits were no more appreciated than at his favorite bar that he protected so fiercely, 'Lounge 52'. In short- he was always the coolest guy in the room.

His sage advice often came in the form of his go-to sayings, "Learn something new today", "Strive for perfection", "Comfort is the enemy of progress" and "Be cognizant of your surroundings!" His children, descendants and mentees were all gifted the benefit of his many pearls of wisdom. He had a gift for rehabilitating and inspiring the underdog. His love of family and friends was unsurpassed.

Chuck leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 50 years, Brenda, daughter Crystal(John P.), son Jason; five grandchildren: John, Julian, Jada, Jace, Jaelyn; siblings: Janie Barber, Ronald Rogers (Yvonne), Toni Ostrove (Ernest); and a host of other relatives and friends.

DATE
Saturday, April 20, 2024

LOCATION
St. Paul Baptist Church
119 Elm St.
Montclair, NJ 07042

VISITATION
10:00am

MEMORIAL SERVICE
11:00am
https://www.stpaullive.org/

https://youtube.com/@stpaulbaptist6135


As per the departed's request, a private cremation was held.