The Life Cycle Begins - On September 26, 1935, in Holden, Missouri, a beautiful rose began to bloom. Rosetta M. Thomas, lovingly called “Rose,” was born to Bishop Arbra W. Thomas and Mother Helen Thomas as their dear daughter. From the very beginning, Rose’s life reflected the beauty of her name, marked by steady growth, gentle strength, and a grace that touched everyone around her. Rooted in faith and strengthened by family, she carried a spirit that was generous, enduring, and full of love one that remained warm and unforgettable through every season. Growing Strong - Rose attended R.T. Cole and Lincoln High School, where she built a strong foundation rooted in education. From an early age, she understood that her belief in God would guide her throughout life. She was a devoted member of Community Sanctified Church of Christ under her father's leadership, Bishop Arbra W. Thomas, and later became a faithful attendee at

Genesis Missionary Baptist Church. A Life in Full Bloom – Rose worked for 21 years at Grand Court/Brookdale as her career required her to work with her hands in domestic housekeeping. Rose’s creativity was a gift she joyfully shared, always looking for ways to lift and encourage others. She sang along with her sister’s songs that brought comfort and fellowship. Together, they were lovingly known as the "Thomas Singers." She was also richly talented with her hands, expressing care through both artistry and everyday acts of love. As a clothes designer, she crafted beautiful garments for herself and her family with thoughtfulness and pride. She was known as a “kitchen confidant” known for delicious pies and cobblers, delectable dinner rolls, and meals that brought everyone to the table. If you ever ate a meal at her home, Sunday dinner consisted of tender Roast, Potatoes and Greens; let’s not forget the favorites: Beef Stew, Tuna Casserole and Salmon Croquettes. She didn’t have a recipe for it, but whatever she cooked, it was scrumptious. Her cooking came from the heart, shaped by good old-fashioned love and a natural touch.

Those Who Went Before - Rose was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Bishop Arbra W.Thomas and Mother Helen Thomas; her brothers, Ira, Isaac, Luther, Donald, and Arbra Thomas;her sisters, Anna Rucker, Opal Saunders, Jeanette Jones, Yvonne Elaine Dunlap, and Lola Estell. The Rose Fades Away - Though the rose petals have now fallen, Rosetta’s beauty and love continue to bloom in the hearts of those who cherish her memory. Cherishing the Memory - Daughter, Deborah Thomas; grandchildren, Brian Stevenson (Mendi) and Ronnie Stevenson; great-grandchildren, Malik Stevenson, Rayla Stevenson, Miles Stevenson, and Bailey Stevenson. She is also lovingly remembered by a host of nephews and nieces, cousins, great nieces and nephews and great great nieces and nephews, her church family at Genesis Missionary Baptist Church and friends at Palestine Gardens. “The life of 'Rose' will not be forgotten, and all who knew her will carry her fragrance with them”.