Raphael Rogers Obituary – Houston, TX: Beloved Chef and Community Pillar Dies Suddenly
It is with deep sorrow that we share the news of the sudden passing of Raphael “Raph” Rogers, who left us on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in Houston, Texas. Raph was a vibrant soul—cherished by his family, treasured by his community, and known for his passion, creativity, and generosity of spirit
🎂 Biography & Culinary Career
Born around 1985–1986, Raph dedicated close to two decades to the culinary arts. His journey began with humble roots and grew through relentless hard work and imagination. Notably:
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In 2012, he was awarded Iron Chef, and later claimed the Mid‑Atlantic BBQ Championship title three times
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He served as a private chef for high‑profile clients, including athletes from the University of Houston and University of Tennessee, as well as select TV stars At Houston’s Pearl Restaurant & Bar (located in the historic 1924 Sam Houston Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton), he was celebrated for crafting innovative coastal and Tex‑Mex fusion menus that delighted diners with bold, healthy, and flavorful dishes
His love for travel, golf, and smoking meats built deeper bonds with friends, and his devotion to BBQ culture was contagious
❤️ Family & Personal Life
Raph held loved ones at the center of his universe:
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Proud father to Sebastian and Lawson
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Devoted (& doting) dog dad to Khole and Oreo
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Partner to Janet, and beloved by Larry (relationship unspecified but clearly significant)
Colleagues and customers admired his warmth, playful humor, and unwavering kindness. The culinary community in Houston felt deeply his absence the day he passed.
🕯️ Tributes & Funeral
Shortly after his passing, heartfelt social media posts emerged:
“Rest easy Raphael Rogers. You will be missed. I got Janet and Larry and your baby for life.” A memorial service was scheduled for Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 1 PM, hosted at Respect of Life Funeral Home in Houston . This ceremony offers space for family, friends, and admirers to come together to remember Raph’s kindness, passion, and lively spirit.
🌟 Legacy & Memories
Raph’s impact went beyond his award-winning cuisine. He:
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Elevated Houston’s culinary landscape with his unique fusion of coastal and Tex‑Mex flavors
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Shared his love for food and nutrition with positivity and zest
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Inspired colleagues and clients as a true creative, mentor, and friend
Though his journey was cut short, his legacy endures in every plate he crafted, every life he touched, and every smile he inspired.
💐 How to Honor Raph
The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, mourners may:
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Donate to a charity that supports budding chefs or culinary education
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Make a heartfelt gesture that celebrates his legacy of kindness, creativity, and care
In Closing
Raphael “Raph” Rogers was more than just a gifted chef—he was a beacon of warmth, innovation, and joy in Houston’s food culture and beyond. He will be missed, but his spirit lives on in the memories he left behind, the culinary community he enriched, and the family and friendships he treasured.
May he rest in peace, forever celebrated in every flavor and every smile he inspired.