William "Hershall" Rodgers was born to parents Virginia (Tranthem) and Robert Rodgers on May 10, 1928 in Dos Palos, California. He attended local schools and graduated from Shafter High. Hershall married Claudine Claire Albright and the couple made Shafter their home. Hershall was preceded in death by his parents, and two of his siblings, Leon Rodgers and Edna Lumis. He is survived by his wife, Claudine Rodgers; two children, Bill Rodgers and Patrice Clevenger; his brother, Robert Rodgers Jr.; his sister, Lucille Golding; 6 grandchildren; and 8 great grandchildren.