Thad Rogers - RIP

All Things Chess
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This is from the Georgia Chess Association:

In Memoriam: Mr. Thad Rogers

With heavy hearts, the Board of the Georgia Chess Association (GCA) mourns the passing of our beloved President, Mr. Thad Rogers.

Thad was more than a leader—he was a legend in the Georgia chess community. As the founding President of the GCA, a tireless national chess volunteer, and a lifelong ambassador of the game, Thad dedicated his life to making chess accessible, inclusive, and welcoming to players of all level.

He was the force behind The Atlanta Chess …a chess organization that hosted chess events in many states. Known for his famously low entry fees—often sacrificing profit to keep chess affordable—Thad put players first, always. His events were never just about competition; they were about building community.

Thad’s passion, generosity, and unwavering belief in the power of chess left an indelible mark not only on Georgia but on the national chess landscape. His work created opportunities for players, cultivated local talent, and brought people from all walks of life together over the board.

The Georgia Chess Association extends its deepest condolences to Thad’s family, friends, and the many lives he touched. We will be forever grateful for his leadership, his service, and his enduring love for game.

Details regarding memorial arrangements will be shared with the community as they become available.

Rest in peace, Thad. Your legacy will live on in every move we make.

Respectfully Submitted,

David A. Cole, US Chess Life Member, Franklin, NJ and former Atlanta Area Resident

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And here are my personal memories of Thad Rogers:

I lived in the Atlanta area for 3 years, and served for 1 year on the Georgia Chess Association as the 2nd Vice President. I remember Thad fondly as I put forth my suggestions on who to vote for during the 1996 US Chess Federation’s Policy Board, and Thad disagreed with 3 of my choices, but totally respected where I was coming from. I could also remember that Thad organized and directed the 1999 US Junior High School Championships in Columbus, Ohio, and I was relocating from NJ to St. Louis, and when a couple of the tournament directors canceled out, Thad called me to help fill in and I also saved money on hotel expense by staying in Columbus and knocking off the rest of the drive to St. Louis after that tournament. Thad was a humble, caring person, and even though we had our disagreements, he never held a grudge. It is true that Thad put the players first, and had the opportunity of competing in the old Atlanta Chess Center that Thad ran for a long time. RIP, Thad, you will be missed by many!

Respectfully Submitted,

David A. Cole, US Chess Life Member Franklin, NJ & Former Atlanta Area Resident

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I had several interactions with Thad over the years on governance matters, he would defend his opinions vigorously but also respectfully.