With hearts full of gratitude and sorrow, we announce the passing of Rosa Newton on October 24, 2026, at the age of 98. A brave, fiercely independent, and loyal woman, Rosa faced life's challenges with courage, determination, and a spirit that never quit.

Born in Germany during World War II, Rosa survived tuberculosis, which claimed the lives of her father and sister. After meeting and marrying George, a U.S. Army soldier, she began a new chapter in America. Determined to master English, she taught herself with a treasured emerald-green German-English dictionary that remains a testament to her grit and tenacity. Five years after arriving in America, she proudly became a U.S. citizen.

Rosa and George shared 45 years of marriage and raised six children: Richard, George, Cynthia, Cecil, Barbara, and Arnold. She was a loving grandmother to Corrie, Candie, Megan, Trevor, Taylor, Austin, Kerstin, Ceybom, and Whitney. During George's 30-year military career, the family relocated nine times. When he was deployed to Korea twice, Rosa managed the family on her own, meeting every challenge with determination—including learning to drive so she could care for her children.

Rosa's greatest pride and joy was her family. She was spunky, witty, fiercely loyal, and endlessly supportive. For decades, she began her mornings with a four-mile walk. She loved her favorite television shows, filling the house with German music, and dancing around the living room without a care in the world. Her smile could light up a room, and her laughter made others feel special. Whether comforting a broken heart, displaying a child's artwork on the refrigerator, or making room on the kitchen counter for a three-year-old's “office,” Rosa had a way of making everyone feel loved and valued.

Rosa taught her family that life may not always be easy, but hard work and determination can help you overcome obstacles and build a life of your own. Her strength, kindness, humor, and unwavering love will live on in all who knew her.

Whenever family and friends left Rosa's home, she sent them off with a loving wave. Now, it is our turn to wave goodbye to a beautiful soul who will forever be our guiding light, our inspiration, and our beloved mentor. Though she is gone, her love will remain in the family she cherished and the countless memories she leaves behind.