Rosaleen T Chao

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Rosaleen (Rose) Chao, who left this world peacefully on February 16, 2025, after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. She was 57 years old.

Born on November 11, 1967, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Rose spent her early years in Dublin before moving to Queens, New York and then settling in Sarasota, Florida. A graduate of Queens College (Class of 1993) and Orange County Community College, she dedicated her life to helping others as a Physical Therapist Assistant. Her compassion and dedication to her patients defined her career, and she was deeply respected by all who knew her.

Rose had a zest for life that was truly inspiring. She was an avid gardener, accomplished seamstress, passionate gnome collector, dog lover, and scooter rider. She embraced fitness, the outdoors, cooking, and baking, creating a home filled with warmth and laughter. Her tiramisu was legendary, a reflection of the love she poured into everything she did. An avid reader and skilled calligrapher, she found beauty in both words and the world around her.

Her adventurous and empathetic spirit shone through in all aspects of her life. In her younger years, she was the captain of her high school softball and gymnastics teams, demonstrating her strength and leadership early on. She carried that same resilience and positivity throughout her life, facing every challenge—including her battle with cancer—with remarkable courage and grace.

Rose was a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend. She is survived by her beloved husband, Richard Ryan, and their cherished son, Liam Ryan. She also leaves behind her devoted father James Chao and brothers, Brendan Chao and Milo Chao as well as her in-laws and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother, Gemma Page.

Rose spent her final days surrounded by her loving family, and the outpouring of support from friends and loved ones helped her maintain her unwavering positivity throughout her fight. Her kindness, strength, and adventurous spirit will forever be remembered.

Memorial service details will be shared in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rose’s honor to the National Scleroderma Foundation at https://national.scleroderma.org/site/Donation.

Rose’s light, love, and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.