Rosa L Williams-Peterson

Rosa lived a long and meaningful life rooted in love, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was known for being strong, loving, and deeply caring. To Rosa, there was no such thing as letting family go. She believed that family takes care of family—no matter what. She opened her home and her heart without hesitation. This was not something she did just once, but something she carried through generations.

Rosa was married twice in her lifetime. She and her first husband moved to New York sometime after 1957. He preceded her in death. She later married Thomas H. Peterson on January 26, 1986. Rosa cared for him in their home in Palm Coast until he passed away in 2003, a true reflection of her strength and commitment.

Rosa spent many years living in Brooklyn before later making Palm Coast her home. She dedicated many years of her life to helping raise children and caring for families, becoming known to many as Aunt Rosa, Mama Rosa, Grandma, and Gigi. She later found her place with the State of New York, caring for children with disabilities.

She was the proud mother of seven children: Selma (deceased), Rosa Mary, Willie Ray (deceased), Odessa (deceased), Glory Ann, Shirley Ann, and Cora.

She lovingly raised several of her grandchildren as her own—George, Sheila, Ellen (deceased), and Charlene—quietly stepping in wherever she was needed. In fact, every one of her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins, near and far, lived with her at some point in their lives. Her love extended far beyond what was expected, and her impact will continue through every life she touched.

She also leaves to cherish her memory her grandchildren: Lakeisha, Shakila, Meya, Tameka,Nicolas, Richard, Willie, Darnell, Teniyah, Latasha, LaPaul, and Giovonni; and great-grandchildren: Titus, RJ, Leya, Jaydel, Odyssi, Navi, Mazarin, Zyaire, and Harrison, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, loving relatives, and wonderful friends.

Rosa was preceded in death by her two sisters and one brother. As the oldest, she carried the role of caregiver with grace and strength throughout her life. She also lovingly cared for her own grandmother, Dicy, until her passing at the remarkable age of 110.

Rosa’s life was a true example of selflessness, strength, and unconditional love. Her legacy will live on through the many generations she nurtured, protected, and held together.