Rose Lawrence-7-9-2022

Rose Lee Smith was born on March 3, 1932 to the late Mildred and Peter Smith Sr. in Russell County, Alabama. The youngest of seven children, Rose learned at a young age the power of family, unity, and generosity.

Rose was educated in the Russell County School System. She committed herself to Christ at an early age and joined the Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Seale, Alabama. Her faith would remain strong throughout the seasons of her life. Even in her later years, she would hold tight to her faith as she attended Christ Church in Howell, NJ.

Rose was united in holy matrimony to John Henry Lawrence, and together they relocated to Tinton Falls, New Jersey. A strong-willed matriarch, Rose was blessed to mother eight children!  After the early death of her husband, Rose showed strength with her southern work ethic. Serving as a housekeeper for nearly forty years, she had a reputation of integrity and excellence amongst her long-time clients. By the grace of God and this career, the young mother was able to provide for her children successfully.

“Kitty,” as those who loved her would call her, had a heart for hospitality and a serious knack for gardening. From peppers to collard greens, there seemed to be nothing that she couldn't grow. It is no wonder that her family tree has flourished over the years to see her holding her great-great-grandchildren!

Rose loved to be where the action was; not much would happen without her knowing it. Sitting on the porch, phone in hand, our beloved matriarch was always ready to report any suspicious or interesting activity. Known for her cooking, her home on Clinton Place would become a mainstay for hospitality. If you knew Rose, you knew she was famous for her collard greens and sweet potato pone.

On Sunday, July 3, 2022, Rose departed this earthly life at Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, NJ.

She was predeceased by her parents; husband; brothers Peter Smith, George Smith, and Charlie Smith; sisters Mary A. Evans, Monia White, and Viola White; her son Richard Lawrence; her daughters Mary Lawrence and Shirley Coger; and her two granddaughters Sheri Coger and Yolanda Lawrence.

With her kind heart and loving smile, she leaves to cherish her memories her beloved children, Betty Brockington of Tinton Falls, NJ;  Herman (Janet) Lawrence of Middletown, NJ; John (Gwen) Lawrence of Tinton Falls, NJ; Juanita Lawrence of Middletown, NJ; Carrie Lawrence of Keyport, NJ; her sisters-in-law Mary Johnson, Eddie Mae Paxton, Rachel Dixon, Virginia Dixon, and Mary Lee Dixon; 20 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, family, and friends who will miss her dearly.

As her parting leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her, Rose’s legacy will continue to be celebrated and carried on.