Rosie's obituary
Dione Rosalie Grant, better known as Rosie, was born on October 1st, 1936 in Black River, Jamaica. She is survived by her son Peter-John, grandson Marcus, daughter Rose-Ann (husband Ryan), sister-in-law Janet, her nieces and nephews: Dorothy, Sonia, Geraldine, Tony, Richard, Delroy, Roger and Stephen as well as many other loving family members and friends.
Rosie was first married to Peter Ableton in 1958 with whom she had her son, Peter-John. In addition to being a mother she also worked as a salesperson for Grace Kennedy for over 10 years. During that time she played on their badminton team and did quite well, even winning a tournament. Rosie truly enjoyed sports and being active. After her marriage to Peter ended she emigrated to the United States with her family in 1971 and later married Lloyd Grant. Her second child, Rose-Ann, was born in New Jersey a few years later. Despite the challenges of a new country and culture, and finding herself to be a single mother shortly after her daughter’s birth, Rosie was still known for her smile and willingness to help. She was truly a people person and if someone was in need she was ready to lend a hand. She loved her family deeply and worked hard for them. While caring for her aging mother, Inez, and raising her daughter with help from her son, she also worked in Human Resources for Sun Chemical for over 25 years.
In 1976 Rosie began studying the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses. She took what she learned seriously and made changes in her life which led to her baptism in 1977. She had a deep love for Jehovah and devoted much of her free time over the next 45 years to volunteer construction and ministry work. At the age of 74 she started her full-time ministry career and continued that till the age of 80.
Always ready with a smile Rosie enjoyed traveling, taking cruises, or sitting on the beach. Rosie loved to dance and soca music was one of her favorites. She enjoyed good food with friends, especially traditional Jamaican dishes like oxtail and stew peas. Seafood was also a favorite, especially escovitch fish made by her son. And she always saved room for ice cream.
Rosie was sweet, feisty and loved to laugh. Her personality and genuine nature drew people to her quickly. Even late in life she made lasting impressions on those fortunate enough to meet her. Her children as well as many family and friends will miss her dearly and cherish her memory until our Father Jehovah brings her back in Paradise. (John 5:28 and 29)