Rose Mary Watson

Rose Mary Watson, of Lakewood, New Jersey departed this life on February 25, 2023. Rose was born November 16, 1940, to Booker T. and Rosa Griffin in Fitkins Memorial Hospital, Neptune, NJ. She attended the Asbury Park School System where she excelled in her academics throughout her years as a student. After highschool Rose married and started her family with former Jesse Lee White Sr. In Freehold, NJ eventually settling in Lakewood, NJ. Together, they brought forth the life of eight beautiful children she nurtured and loved deeply. Rose was a member of the Shunammite Chapter #21 order of the Eastern Star, Lakehurst, NJ. She remarried her late husband Frank Watson Jr. on June 30, 1984. Incredibly soft spoken, Rose was known for her small stature but mighty presence. She never raised her voice. She was admired for her faith in God and her strength. Rose enjoyed spending time with her family, traveling, cooking large meals, crosswords puzzles and crocheting. Her career began at the Ocean County Board of Social Services where she would retire after 24 successful years of service in 2004. Rose lived her life as a God-fearing devout Christian. A former member of New Jerusalem AME Zion Church, under Pastors Kennedy, Montgomery, Mclaughlin, Lee, Carswell, Harrigan, Carson, Evans, Smith, Parriott, Bennett, and Stewart. She served as a Steward, Trustee and Delegate for New Jersey Annual Conference. Rose transitioned as a member of St John AME Zion Church. She was constituted a Matron in the Women's Home and Overseas Missionary Society in 2012.

Rose was preceded in death by her husband Frank Watson, Jr.; her children, Jesse Lee White, Jr., Daryl White, Brian White and Rose Marie White.

Rose is survived by her children, Franklin T. White of Lakewood, NJ; Gary White of Freehold, NJ; her son Dwayne White of Camden, NJ; and her son Tyrie White of Lakewood; as well as their families and extended families and dear friends.

A viewing for Rose will be held Saturday, March 4, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at D'Elia Funeral Home, 1300 Vermont Avenue, Lakewood, NJ 08701, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM.