Testimonials
“I've known Rose for over 25 years, she came to work at my company as my Office Coordinator, she quickly became my Personal Assistant then as my Executive Assistant. She was so phenomenal and became like family to me. I watched her children grow up and become amazing humans. Her strength and resilience during those times was impressive. I always respect her ability to maintain her cheerfulness and hard work during the times of her deepest hardships. Rose is a true inspiration.”
José EberWorld Renowned, French Born Hairstylist to the Stars and Entrepreneur
“I met Rose (I knew her then as Rosie) in a swimming pool at a Motel 6 somewhere close to the Grand Canyon. I was on vacation with my family from Tennessee. Rose was with her family from Arizona. I was 10 and she was 11. Little did I know that the friendship of a lifetime was about to begin. The next morning before my family checked out of the motel, someone thought to get a picture of Rose and me. I am so glad because I still have that picture and it always brings back such fond memories. Rose and I exchanged addresses that day and became pen pals. For those of you who don’t know, that means we sent handwritten letters back and forth to each other through the mail. There were no computers, emails or texting back then. There was just a piece of paper or a cute card that you would send to your friend telling them what was going on in your life at the time. I would get so excited when a letter from Rose came in the mail. Sometimes there would be pictures enclosed and that would make it even better. These letters continued for years and years. During this time, a deep friendship was formed. We shared our highs and lows. We have only seen each other in person three times since we have been corresponding. Once when I went on vacation out West again, once when Rose came to Tennessee to be in my wedding and most recently when Rose flew out for an Easter visit. Each time we got together, it was like we had just seen each other the day before. Rose has such a kind, sweet spirit and I always know that she cares and will be there if I need her.
As time progressed our letters didn’t come quite as often because life got in the way. But every year there were a few cards and phone calls that kept us in touch. Rose’s life seemed so exotic to me. Being a model and working with “the stars,” you would think that Rose would forget her country girlfriend from Tennessee. But she never changes. Rose has kept her positive attitude and her kind spirit and just keeps moving forward. I know that I will always have my friend and that no matter how much time passes, we will always pick up like we just saw each other the day before.”
Denita, TNDirector of Nutrition for Haywood County Schools
“The tall and statuesque woman greeted me at the attendance window of the high school. Her grace and warmth were clear from the first words she spoke. That was more than 18 years ago. Since that time, I have gotten to know Rose well. Not only did I work with her children as their high school counselor, our many contacts bloomed into friendship over the years. Rose includes other people and thus enriches their lives. She has a rare way of making others feel special and heard. I am so looking forward to reading what she has written about her life. She is an amazing, remarkable woman with a courageous and wise outlook on life. Now it is her turn to tell her story.”
Teresa, CARetired School Counselor and Friend