Charleen "Nana" Palmer Higgs Rogers

Charleen Palmer Higgs Rogers departed this world for the next on December 27, 2025, at the age of 94.

She was a fixture in her community, having been a longtime member of Pleasant Heights Baptist Church and a resident of Columbia, TN, since she and her family moved there and opened the first Columbia Battery automotive shop in 1981, later expanded to Lightning Lube.

The beloved matriarch of a large family, Charleen is survived by two sons, Darrell Higgs (wife Nancy Higgs) and Randy Higgs (wife Kathy Higgs); her sister, Ella Palmer Anglin; two stepsons from her second marriage, Davis Rogers (wife Janet Rogers) and Dennis Rogers (wife Pauline Rogers); and a special extended family member, Jessie Higgs. Affectionately known as “Nana” for the latter half of her life, she is further survived by nine grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. Her family was the center of her life, and she cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren dearly.

She was preceded in death by both of her husbands, having been married first to O. D. Higgs for 35 years before finding love again with Keith Rogers for the last 15 years of his life.

She found great joy in caring for others, especially through cooking for those she loved, a gift she shared generously and with great pride.

Charleen was a woman of deep faith, strong convictions, and enduring love for her family and friends. She was a devoted Southern Baptist and a true believer in Christ’s love and forgiveness. A devoted Bible reader and teacher, Charleen’s faith guided her life and shaped her values. She loved to sing, lifting her voice in praise and joy. Her Sunday school class held a special place in her heart, and she lived out her beliefs with an old-fashioned sense of right and wrong, holding firmly to what she knew to be true.

Charleen appreciated the beauty of God’s creation, especially flowers of all kinds, and delighted in traveling whenever she could. Charleen was a strong woman, born in Holly Springs, MS, during the height of the Great Depression, yet rising to become her high school’s salutatorian and later the mother of four children, two of whom preceded her in death: Kevin Higgs (wife Marcia Higgs) and Gary Higgs. Those early lessons shaped her into an independent, strong-willed woman who lived frugally and responsibly.

She took great care of her health and always presented herself with grace, dressing impeccably and carrying herself with dignity. Known for her sharp wit and loyal heart, Charleen was a true friend to many and will be remembered for her strength, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. She will be remembered as a strong leader of her family, an unmatched chef, and a truth-teller without apology. Charleen was a hardy woman of a world forgotten, but her influence will last through generations.

She will lie in state at her beloved Pleasant Heights Baptist Church on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 1:30pm for public viewing, followed by a private burial service for the family. Rev. Bob Vassar will speak at the gravesite.

In lieu of flowers, Charleen and her family ask that gifts or contributions be given in her name to Pleasant Heights Baptist Church or Pregnancy Center of Columbia.

With dignity and care, Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family.