Rose Kathryn Phillips

Rose K. Phillips was born on August 25, 1931, in Brockton, Massachusetts. In 1975, she married Edward Phillips, a Commander of the US Navy, and spent over 23 of the happiest years with her darling Ed. Not only was she Ed’s princess, but she was also President of the Military Wives Club.

A graduate of the American Floral Art School in Chicago, Rose was an accomplished florist and professional floral commentator. She was President of the TROA, made seven hundred and fifty roses for when the troops first came home from the Gulf War, and even designed arrangements for four Inaugural Balls. Rose lived a vibrant life, traveling all across the US, Europe, and even to Taiwan to represent the United States at the International Flower Exposition.

But there was no place in this world Rose loved more than Cary, NC. No one left Rose’s house without having something to eat, she counted down the days every week til Sunday when she would see her church community, and she loved to play Scrabble with her granddaughters.

In her final days, Rose was surrounded by her nurturing and loving neighbors, friends, and family. All of whom shared Rose’s famous jokes, letters from loved ones, and stories of her beautiful marriage with Ed.

Thank you, Rose, for all the laughs, the lipstick marks on our cheeks, and for all of the love. We love you so much. Rest in the sweetest peace with Ed.

"Ciao Bella"

In honor of Rose’s memory, please make a contribution to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Shriner’s Children’s Hospital in Greenville, SC, or her beloved church, St. Mary Magdalene. Please send flowers from her favorite florist and longtime friend, John from The Flower Cupboard at 919-467-4161.