Dearest Rose,

 I love you eternally, dear cousin. You will be missed by so many. Now, your a big star in the sky, singing and dancing... that's how I'll remember you! Rest in Peace.

I am Rose's cousin on her mom's side, but we didn't get to meet IRL for a really long time because I live abroad. She was already grown when we finally got to hang out and share stories. I knew she had been through challenging things, we both had a lot in common. I'm a lot older, and I really saw her and her truth, and wanted to be there for her as much as possible at a distance. I wish she had even the smallest idea of how much she was loved. 

Rose was crazy talented, and witty, and smart. She was brave, and she worked hard in spite of all the crap life threw at her. She was fiercely protective of her brother, and always advocated for what would help him most. She deserved the whole world. She still does. 

Rose and I grew up together. From the moment she stepped into my life I knew she was going to be a star. She always had this radiating presence around her that brought light and love to all who knew her. Growing up we would spend hours watching burlesque shows, choreographing new dances, learning new lyrics to songs, making up costumes, and filming plays she wrote. Her childhood idol, Barbra Streisand, would be so proud of the woman Rose grew to be.

Rose helped the people around her learn to embrace who they were and unapologetically do what they love. She raised an entire community of children who didn't have parents and taught us how to be genuine people.

I can't believe the world won't hear your beautiful voice or watch you dance again. You will be missed more than you could ever know. The footprints you left on this earth and in people's heart will never be forgotten. I know wherever you are you're singing your heart out on a stage in front of millions. I can't wait to see that show one day. We will all love and miss you, Rosie.