Shirley Ann Rose

Shirley Ann Rose passed away on May 25, 2025, at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was 87 years old. Shirley was born on August 17, 1937, in Waltreak, Arkansas to Coy and Bevie Watson. Shirley was an only child and shared a close bond with her parents throughout her life.

Shirley had a fulfilling career with Arkansas Power and Light / Entergy Arkansas, where she gradually moved up the corporate ladder, eventually retiring as the Administrative Assistant to the Vice President of Governmental Affairs. Her time at Entergy Arkansas was marked by happiness and rewarding experiences, as well as the formation of lifelong friendships.

Shirley married the love of her life, Teddy Rose, in 1957. The two first met at Arkoma Primitive Baptist Church, located across the Oklahoma state line from Fort Smith, where both their families attended. Shirley was 7 and Teddy was 10. Their bond strengthened as they grew older, and they began dating when Shirley was 16 and Teddy was 19. After Shirley's graduation from Northside High School, she started working as a clerk for White Dairy Ice Cream Company. During this time, Teddy was in the army, and they maintained their relationship through letters and dates during Teddy's leave.

Together, Shirley and Teddy raised three children: Terry, Derrick, and Brent. Sadly, Terry passed away in July 1998, and Teddy in 1995. Shirley was immensely proud of her family, and her love for them remained a guiding force throughout her life. She always treasured the memories they shared.

Shirley was passionate about music and singing, becoming a member of Top of the Rock chorus, a chapter of Sweet Adelines International and her church choir. She formed close friendships within these groups and remained a member at heart even after she stopped singing with them officially. Her creative spirit also shone through her love for watercolor painting, which she used to create personalized cards for birthdays and holidays.

In addition to her involvement with Top of the Rock, Shirley also shared a special bond with four other women from the chorus —Carol, Glenda, Janell, and Pam. The five of them formed a travel group called the "SoHo’s," a playful reference to their Southern roots and their adventurous spirit. Together, these women traveled to various places across the United States and Canada.

In addition to her musical and artistic pursuits, Shirley was a devoted member of Park Hill Presbyterian Church for over 20 years. She found solace and a strong sense of community within the church walls and often described walking through the front door as feeling like coming home. The church was a source of comfort and guidance throughout her life.

Shirley was also a member of the Maumelle Community Center, where she took part in art classes and learned to play the dulcimer. She was always eager to learn new things and explore her interests, making friends along the way.

Shirley is survived by her sons Derrick Rose (daughter-in-love Stacy Reynolds) and Brent Rose (Daughter-In-Law Shelley), as well as her grandchildren, Jett Rose (Fiancé Melanie Wilson), Landon Rose, Madelyn Rose, Step Granddaughter Haley Beth Cole and sister-in-Law, Joyce Martin. Each one held a special place in Shirley's heart, and she cherished the memories they created together throughout the years.

During her time at St. Vincent's, she was surrounded by an exceptional hospice team who provided her with compassionate, attentive care that made all the difference. Their unwavering support and dedication to Shirley's well-being will always be remembered and appreciated by her family.

A funeral service to celebrate Shirley's life will be held Wednesday June 4, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Park Hill Presbyterian Church, located at 3520 John F Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, AR 72116. The service will be officiated by Carlton Philbrick, a friend and fellow church member. All who knew and loved Shirley are welcome to attend and remember the joy she brought to so many. Following the service, a reception will be held for friends and family to gather in honor of Shirley's memory.