Birmingham, October 17, 2025
News Summary
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office is appealing for public assistance in locating family members of two men who died on September 29 in Birmingham. Edward Pierson, 76, and John Alexander Rogers, 60, both passed away from natural causes, and their bodies are ready for burial. Authorities believe Pierson may have a son and a brother, while Rogers reportedly has family in multiple states. The coroner is committed to ensuring a proper burial and notifying their families.
Birmingham
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office is urgently searching for family members of two men who died in late September 2024 in Birmingham. The bodies of the deceased are ready for burial, but authorities have not been able to locate any relatives.
Edward Pierson, aged 76, was found dead in his home on September 29, 2024, located in the 700 block of 45th Street North. His death was discovered during a welfare check conducted by Birmingham Fire and Rescue. Chief Deputy Coroner Bill Yates confirmed that Pierson died of natural causes. The coroner’s office believes he may have a son named Garrett and a brother named Robert Peterson. Pierson has had previous addresses in Birmingham, Detroit, and Las Vegas.
Similarly, John Alexander Rogers, aged 60, also died on September 29, 2024, at Birmingham Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, where he was under the care of Compassus Hospice. His death was also attributed to natural causes, as confirmed by Yates. It is reported that Rogers was previously homeless and is believed to have family members living in Alabama, Colorado, Florida, and Virginia.
Authorities are appealing to the public for help. Anyone with information regarding the family members of either deceased man is encouraged to call the coroner’s office at 205-930-3603. The coroner’s office is committed to ensuring that both men receive a proper burial and that their families are notified of their passing.
Background Context
In cases where individuals pass away without immediate family, the coroner’s office plays a crucial role in locating relatives to provide them with closure. The sad reality is that some people may pass away alone, leading to challenges in identifying and contacting family members. The coroner’s office often relies on public assistance to fill the gaps in their searches for kin.
The efforts to reach out to family members in the community are not only vital for logistical reasons but also serve a poignant human need for connection and remembrance. The community’s involvement in these situations can greatly assist in honoring the lives of those who have passed.
Summary of Cases
| Name | Age | Date of Death | Location of Death | Cause of Death | Possible Family |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edward Pierson | 76 | September 29, 2024 | 700 block of 45th Street North, Birmingham | Natural Causes | Possibly a son named Garrett, a brother named Robert Peterson |
| John Alexander Rogers | 60 | September 29, 2024 | Birmingham Nursing and Rehabilitation Center | Natural Causes | Believed to have family in Alabama, Colorado, Florida, and Virginia |
FAQ
What is the purpose of the search by the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office?
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office is searching for family members of two men who died in late September 2024 in Birmingham.
When were the two men found dead?
Edward Pierson, 76, was found dead on September 29, 2024, inside his home located at the 700 block of 45th Street North. John Alexander Rogers, 60, also died on September 29, 2024, at Birmingham Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
How can someone help with the search for family members?
Anyone with information regarding the family members of either deceased man is urged to call the coroner’s office at 205-930-3603.
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Additional Resources
- Alabama News: Family Sought for 2 Men Who Died Recently in Birmingham
- Wikipedia: Coroner
- WBRC News: Birmingham Family Still Searching for Answers
- Google Search: Alabama Coroner’s Office
- ABC3340 News: Jefferson County Coroner’s Office Seeks Help
- Google Scholar: Coroner Case Studies
- WBRC News: Family Retraces Final Steps of Missing Man
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Medical Examination
- Alabama News: Family Members Find Man Shot to Death
- Google News: Birmingham Deaths

Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.


