Roger Lee Givens was born on May 12, 1939, on a farm in Emmet, Nebraska. Roger is the son of a farmer and carpenter, Harold W. Givens, and a teacher, Teresa M. Givens. He grew up on the farm with his brother, Bart Givens, and sisters Annette Floreani and Carmen Houllis. Working on the farm he learned a strong work ethic, which became a trait for which he was often recognized.

Following his high school graduation in Stuart, Nebraska, Roger attended Conception Seminary in Missouri, where he studied to become a priest. Deciding later to pursue a degree in education, Roger transferred to Nebraska's Wayne State Teachers College in 1960. Here he met his wife of 60 years, Joan Thompson. They began their teaching careers in Des Moines, Iowa, but later moved to Bellevue, Nebraska where they lived
for more than 50 years. Roger served the Bellevue Public Service District for 35 years and became the principal at Bellevue West Senior High School.

In Bellevue they raised their three children, Steve, Laura, and Susan. The Givens family was enriched by opening their home to family members, foreign exchange students, and foster children. Roger's greatest joy was his seven grandchildren: Briana, Jared, and Collin Givens; Sidra and Aric Givens-Skeaton; and Trent and Trevor Clark.

Roger was devoted to his Catholic faith and served his parish and community in many ways. His faith was comforting to him, and he believed wholeheartedly in serving others. Following the teachings of Jesus, Roger truly lived his life doing what Jesus would do.

Memorials can be given to:
Bellevue-Offutt Kiwanis, Bellevue, Nebraska
Green Valley Recreation Woodworking Shop, Green Valley, AZ
Community Performance & Art Center, Green Valley, AZ

A viewing will be held at Our Lady of the Valley Parish in Green Valley, AZ on Thursday, August 3, 2023, beginning at 9:30am. The funeral Mass will be held immediately following.

Please join the family to honor Roger at a luncheon following Mass located at:
Las Campanas Center
565 W Belltower Dr
Green Valley, AZ

A memorial service will be held in Bellevue, Nebraska in Fall, 2023.