Jema Rodgers

In Loving Memory of Rhonda "Jema" Rodgers

Rhonda "Jema" Rodgers, 59, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, passed away on July 27, 2026. Born in Norman, Oklahoma, Jema lived with independence, determination, and an adventurous spirit.

She is survived by her loving parents, Ronald and Joyce Hudson; her brothers, Robert Hudson and Royce Hudson; and her daughter, Berkeley Rodgers, who was the greatest joy and proudest accomplishment of her life.

From an early age, Jema loved horses, karate, and art—interests that reflected the creativity, curiosity, and determination that stayed with her throughout her life.

Jema began her medical career in 1986 as a scrub technician. Through hard work and determination, she became a Registered Nurse, a Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA), and later a Nurse Manager. She was respected not only for her exceptional surgical skills but also for the compassion and dedication she showed every patient she cared for.

If there was one thing that defined Jema, it was that she believed there was always a way. If she didn't know how to do something, she learned. If something seemed impossible, she figured it out. She loved building, creating, gardening, drawing, cooking, restoring her 1922 home, watching football, cars, riding motorcycles, and good food. There was very little she couldn't do—and almost nothing she was afraid to try. She lived life on her own terms and encouraged those around her to do the same.

Anyone who knew Jema knew she was funny, fiercely independent, incredibly hardworking, and refreshingly honest. She had a quick wit, a stubborn streak, and wasn't afraid to tell you exactly what she thought. She dreamed big, worked hard, and lived life without apology.

Above everything else, she was proud of her daughter. She was her biggest supporter, her toughest teacher, and the person who believed in her long before she believed in herself. One of her greatest joys was watching Berkeley follow in her footsteps into the field of cardiac medicine, and she was forever proud of the woman she became.

Jema leaves behind a legacy of strength, compassion, perseverance, unconditional love, and countless memories. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all whose lives she touched.

Services will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026, beginning at 2:00 p.m. at Matthews Funeral Home Chapel in Edmond, Oklahoma.