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  • Larry W. Rogers, 65, died after a 2007 Freightliner driven by Donald M. Cain, 44, of Dayton, Ohio, struck the rear of his 1996 Chevrolet S-10, according to the Kentucky State Police. Photo by Steve Duncum

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March 10, 2010

Late night crash leaves man dead

Remembered as person who helped others

The Times-Tribune

CORBIN — By Becky Manley / Staff Writer 

Family members of the Corbin man who died in a crash Monday on I-75 involving a tractor-trailer remembered him as a man who loved to help others.

Larry W. Rogers, 65, died after a 2007 Freightliner driven by Donald M. Cain, 44, of Dayton, Ohio, struck the rear of his 1996 Chevrolet S-10, according to the Kentucky State Police.

Rescuers said Rogers’ truck was stopped in the right southbound lane near mile marker 26 before 11 p.m. when the crash happened. Police said it isn’t known why Rogers truck was stopped.

Rogers, who wasn’t wearing a seat belt, was ejected from the truck, police said.

Whitley County Chief Deputy Coroner Jerry W. Croley said he pronounced Rogers dead at 11:15 p.m. Croley said the preliminary cause of death is blunt force trauma as a result of the crash. 

No autopsy is planned for Rogers, though toxicology has been ordered, Croley said.

Cain wasn’t injured in the crash, police said.

Police, who said they don’t believe alcohol or drugs were a factor in the crash, continue their investigation.

Rogers owned his own construction business for about 35 years, according to his daughter, Melissa Dryer, 41.

When asked what Rogers built, Dryer said, “probably half of Tattersall.”

Since 2001, Rogers owned and operated Hillbilly Auto Mart along KY 26, Dryer said. 

The used car dealership was a good fit for Rogers who liked being around people and helping them, Dryer said.

About two weeks ago, Dryer said Rogers attended church with her. Rogers, who told the church’s pastor he was a Christian, prayed with the pastor as an affirmation of his faith.

“I truly feel like he’s in a better place now,” Dryer said. “I truly feel that in my heart.”

Dryer said Rogers lived a life that exemplified the hundreds of sermons she has heard, especially when it came to his demonstration of unconditional love for others.

Rogers is survived by his wife, Patsy Rogers; daughters Melinda Rogers, Melissa Dryer, Michelle Bargo and Monica Isom; 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements are pending at Hart Funeral Home in Corbin.

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