Ann Marie Rose

Born on May 11, 1934, in Laurel, Mississippi, Ann entered the world at home, delivered by a doctor who stayed overnight and charged $50 for his services: a story she loved to tell and one that reflected the era she came from. Sweet as honey and tough as nails, Ann lived her life always looking for the good in every situation.

Ann had a vivid imagination and a deep appreciation for creativity, inspired by her lifelong love of fairies and mermaids. She encouraged imagination in her children and grandchildren and believed deeply in seeing wonder in the world. She was known for her warmth, resilience, and humor, and for her willingness to personally step in to help others. Ann often became involved in the lives of family members, neighbors, and even people she barely knew who were struggling with addiction recovery, economic hardship, medical challenges, or who were simply at the end of their rope. She gave her time, energy, and heart freely, believing no one should face hardship alone.

She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and assisted in the family real estate business, but her primary focus was raising her family. Ann was a devoted and supportive wife to her husband, Harold, a deacon at Parkview Baptist Church. She was actively involved in church life, often teaching children in the small upstairs rooms of the church and helping with Vacation Bible School.

Ann was an exceptional homemaker and was especially known for her pies. She and her mother lovingly sewed clothes for her daughters, including pageant dresses for her daughter Susan. She raised her children on a 160-acre farm where they were free to explore, hunt, and fish. There were always babies around (goats, pigs, chickens) and when asked about her favorite memories, Ann’s answer was, “Ponies!”

Civically engaged and energetic, Ann was a prominent member of the Jones County Republican Women, where she served as past president, vice president, secretary, and as a member of the executive committee. She loved energizing campaigns and attending political events, and she devoted countless hours to working the phones and doing the groundwork that helps campaigns succeed. After a successful battle with cancer at age 68, Ann continued her commitment to public service and was later elected Election Supervisor for Jones County, serving her term with dedication.

Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Harold; her daughter, Susan; and her parents, David Byrd Moffett and Adrine Moffett.

She is survived by her son, Tom (Tommy) Rose; her daughter, Melinda Kolker; her brother, Dr. David Moffett; three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Ann lived a full and meaningful life rooted in family, faith, service, imagination, and joy. She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Visitation will be held at Memory Chapel Funeral Home in Laurel, Mississippi from 5:00pm to 8:00pm on Friday, May 1, 2026. Graveside services will be held at 10:00am at Crestview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a Mission of Hope in Laurel, Mississippi.