Rose Ann Scanlon

Rose Ann Scanlon, of Westwood, formally of River Vale, NJ, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 22nd, 2018 with strength in her faith, love in her heart, and surrounded by loving family. She was 88 and lived a long and happy life. Rose was pre-deceased by her loving husband, Thomas, of 31 years.

Rose is survived by her five children: Maureen Birkbeck (Tom) of Lawrenceville, NJ; Catherine Von Oehsen of New Canaan, CT; Thomas Scanlon, Jr. (Debbie) of Ramsey, NJ; Sheila Scanlon (John Longo) of East Granby, CT; and Brian Scanlon (Chantay Ruhland) of Boca Raton, FL; and her twelve grandchildren: Kaitlin, Rachel, Anna, Fiona, Ellie, Charlie, Kellie, Kathleen, Thomas, Brittany, Jillian and Amaya.

Rose hailed from Carratigue, County Mayo, Ireland and in 1954, at the young age of 23 sailed to New York City aboard the RMS Queen Elizabeth, by way of Southampton, England. Her future husband, Tom, also emigrated to the U.S. from County Mayo, but it was in the Bronx, NY where they met and married in 1959. The Scanlon clan eventually settled and lived in River Vale for over 40 years and then Rose moved to nearby Westwood. Even though Rose resided in the U.S. for over 65 years, she never lost her famous Irish brogue!

Rose was a devoted parishioner of St. Andrew’s Roman Catholic Church, enjoyed attending Sunday and daily masses, and was actively involved in the Rosary prayer group. She enjoyed many trips with her fellow senior citizens to the casinos of Atlantic City and Bethlehem, PA. One of her favorite pastimes was knitting hats and scarves for loved ones. Rose was also well known for making delicious scones for family and friends for all occasions. Her scones were always in high demand because the secret ingredient was her love.

An avid lifelong Mets fan, Rosie enjoyed watching her favorite team. She knew the players, and was unafraid to offer her suggestions on who should pitch and management advice.

Considered by many as the unofficial Mayor of Westwood, you couldn’t walk down Westwood Avenue without many conversations. Everybody knew Rosie and she loved to catch up and chat.

For all who knew Rose, who touched her heart and who carry her in theirs, please join us and raise a glass to a kind, thoughtful and giving woman, who will be forever remembered and cherished. If friendship and love were currency, then Rose was the richest person in the land.