Rosemarie Fallon Newton, Ph.D., J.D., a beloved grandmother, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 1st, 2025 at the age of 91 in Gainesville, FL. She will forever be remembered for her sharp wit, infectious laugh, beautiful singing voice, and fierce dedication to educating herself and others.

Rosemarie is survived by her granddaughter Audrey and her son Ted.

Rosemarie was predeceased by her daughter Maggie, her daughter Kate, and her husband Leo.

Rosemarie spent much of her time reading, singing, and playing the piano, and she found great joy in the companionship of her beloved cats, Cody and Penny. Her passion for the performing arts was evident during her years at Riverside Polytechnic High School, where she actively participated in both cheerleading and theater. Rosemarie's creative spirit and love for the arts brought happiness to her life and those around her.

Rosemarie embarked on her professional journey as a secretary shortly after leaving home at 17. She then chose to dedicate herself to being a stay-at-home mother for many years, cherishing the time spent raising her family.

At the age of 44, she made the bold decision to pursue her J.D. and re-enter the workforce. In 1978, she enrolled at Western State University College of Law, where her determination and hard work led her to graduate in 1981. During her time at law school, she was honored to serve on the Law Review and consistently earned a place on the Dean’s List. Rosemarie was admitted to the State Bar of California in 1982. She spent the next 16 years practicing bankruptcy law, during which time she became a partner at her law firm.

Rosemarie was also chosen to travel to Beijing with a small group of law professors where she had the opportunity to teach bankruptcy law to graduate students in China for a semester. She looked back fondly on that trip to China with much pride in her final years.

Rosemarie began pursuing her PhD in Clinical Psychology at Fielding University in 2001. Though she moved to Florida in 2005 to care for her daughter Kate and her granddaughter Audrey in the wake of Kate’s breast cancer diagnosis, Rosemarie fulfilled her degree requirements and graduated with her PhD in 2009.

Rosemarie took an active role in the life of her granddaughter Audrey, supporting her through swim team, volleyball tournaments, and choir practices. Rosemarie stepped up as a parent to Audrey at a time when no one else would. Her impact on Audrey’s life will never be forgotten.

Her granddaughter Audrey would like to express a heartfelt thank you to Jewel Clark, the RNs, and the CNA’s at the E.T. York Hospice Care Center whose exceptional care and dedication made a profound impact on Rosemarie’s life. Your kindness, compassion, and unwavering support brought comfort not only to her but also to Audrey during this difficult time. Thank you for treating her with the dignity and respect she deserved, and for being a source of strength and companionship. Your commitment to her well-being will always be remembered. The warmth and love you shared with her are invaluable.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 am on Thursday May 8th at 4200 NW 90th Blvd, Gainesville, Fl 32606.

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