Rosie Bush

Rosie was born in Shelby, Mississippi, on June 20, 1941. Rosie was a wife, a mother, and a friend. She was married to a loving and devoted husband, Dexter, for 66 years. Together they raised 3 children: Dexter Jr., preceded her in death; Deborah (Robert) McElhaney, Hampton, GA; Darline Bush, Columbus, OH. Rosie treasured her friends, and she made friends for life. The love of her friends continued with a relationship with their children and grandchildren, with many calling Rosie their second mom.

Rosie worked for the Gasbarro family poultry business. She butchered poultry and mastered the art of quartering and filleting poultry with precision. She remained a valuable employee in all the Gasbarro family’s ventures until her retirement.

Rosie accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior at a young age. She was a faithful member of The Greater 12th Missionary Baptist Church for over 5 decades. Rosie was driven by compassion and a desire to help others; she made a point of visiting those in nursing homes so they wouldn't feel forgotten. Her kindness extended to friends and neighbors through home-cooked meals, and she also dedicated her time to collecting donations for church events. Rosie loved working in her yard, planting flowers and tending her garden. She enjoyed sharing the fruits of her labor. She did these things and more, not for fame or fortune but out of love.

She was a proud grandmother of Danielle Lee Bush, Columbus, OH, and Aniya Denise McElhaney, Hampton, GA. Her granddaughter's called her GG. GG was their biggest fan. GG would be front and center at a gallery opening, or a dance recital, or even a science fair to show them her support. GG watched both of her granddaughters' development within the church, the community, and their school. She loved her granddaughters' kindness, caring, and sensitivity, which they exhibit, seeing it as a trait they inherited from her.

When Rosie’s oldest granddaughter was an infant, she faced a bleak medical diagnosis, but GG provided exceptional care and fiercely advocated for her health. Danielle faced difficulties and external challenges. GG knew Danielle’s illness didn't hinder her potential and never let Danielle doubt her abilities. Rosie instills in her granddaughter the power of faith. GG observed Danielle grow stronger in the lord while completing challenges that cross her path. Danielle was told she was not college material. Danielle had faith in her potential. GG was front and center the day Danielle received her Master’s degree.

During Rosie’s illness, roles reversed. Danielle provided exceptional comfort and care throughout her grandmother’s illness. Danielle made adjustments to be there for her grandmother out of love. She did what was needed, not waiting to see what others did first. They shared a special bond due to the sacrifices they made for each other. Let us comfort one another and dry our tears as we cherish Rosie’s memory. Rest In Peace, Mrs. Bush, Rosie, Mom, GG.

PRECEDED IN DEATH: Parents; Dallas & Rose Sanders; Siblings: Raymond &Ruth Sanders, Memphis. TN, SURVIVED BY: Sister: Dorthy Swafford, Memphis, TN; Many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends