OBITUARY: Rosa Mae Mills

Rosa Mae Mills, née Cole, was born on Nov. 9, 1937 to Jilson Cole and Rosetta Terry Cole. She peacefully departed this life at her home in Taylortown on Friday, Aug. 23, 2024.

Rosa Mae or “Ro Mae” was the loving mother of Linda Pearson, the late Terrie Campbell, and Yvette McCormick (Matthew). She was the cherished grandmother of Joseph Clark (Stephanie), Brandon Clark, Courtney Pearson, and Karis Reed. She was also a devoted great-grandmother to seven wonderful great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her dear brother, Edgar Cole (Barbara Jean).

Her family was the cornerstone of her life. Rosa Mae found immense joy in visits from her family, including a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her loving spirit extended to everyone she met, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

Rosa Mae had a deep love for singing, cooking, and spending time with her dear friends and family. She could often be heard singing from her front porch the songs of some of her favorite gospel singers like Shirley Caesar and Sister Rosetta Thorpe. Her favorite of them all was “You Must Be Born Again.” Her faith and church family (Spruill Temple) were of paramount importance to her. She was a committed member who found solace and strength in her faith. She also fondly spoke of her time singing in the choir led by her niece, Sandra.

Professionally, Rosa Mae dedicated her entire career to hospitality. She worked tirelessly as a housekeeper in private homes and at the Pinecrest Inn Hotel in Pinehurst.

Rosa Mae Mills will be remembered for her unwavering love and dedication to her family, her resilience, and her warm, caring nature. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were privileged to know her.

May she rest in eternal peace.

There will be a viewing from 5-7 p.m. Aug. 30 at Elite Funeral Services in Ellerbe.

The funeral service will be a 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31 at Spruill Temple Church Of God In Christ in West End, with a pre-service viewing at 1 p.m. Interment will follow at Academy Heights Memorial Cemetery, 316 Lincoln Ave., West End.

Elite Funeral Services of Ellerbe is serving the family.