Rose Mary Nolan's Obituary
With hearts both heavy and grateful, we announce the passing of Rose Mary Nolan (Montgomery) of Deltona, Florida, who was peacefully called home after bravely battling Stage 4 lung cancer.
Born on June 27, 1953, in Sanford, Florida, to Jackson Cannon and Lula Mae (Collins) Montgomery, Rose lived a life defined by love, faith, and genuine connection.
A true firecracker in every sense of the word, Rose never met a stranger. She could talk to anyone about anything and had a remarkable way of making people feel instantly seen, valued, and understood. God gifted her with the rare ability to be a safe space, and many sought her out for guidance offered with honesty, compassion, and care. Her personality was magnetic, and along the way she “adopted” countless sisters of the heart, chosen children, and lifelong friends who became family.
Graceful, intelligent, and accomplished, Rose earned her degree from Virginia State University in 1975. She retired from a distinguished career at AT&T in 2008, leaving behind not only professional success but also a legacy of relationships built on respect, kindness, and authenticity. In her personal life, she always put her loved ones first. Wherever Rose went, laughter followed, and ordinary moments became extraordinary simply because she was there.
Rose is survived by her devoted husband of 40 years, Larry Nolan, who remained faithfully by her side until the end; her beloved daughters, Maria Tolbert (Kenyatta) and Tamara Travis (Charles); and her cherished grandchildren, Kennedi Tolbert, Jamera Baxter, and Kaleb Tolbert. She is also lovingly remembered by her “adopted” daughters, Josalyn Richardson and Patrice Brown-Perkins, and her siblings, Roy Montgomery (Elaine), Louis Montgomery (Jocelyn), and Gail Jackson. In addition, she leaves behind a host of extended family, chosen family, and dear friends.
Though her diagnosis came suddenly, her faith never wavered. We take comfort in knowing she now rests in God’s eternal care—free from pain and surrounded by peace. As Scripture reminds us, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:4), and we hold tightly to that promise.
A Celebration of Life honoring Rose will be held on her birthday, June 27. Additional details will be shared at a later time.
Her legacy is one of love freely given, wisdom generously shared, and joy that continues to live on in all who were blessed to know her. She will be truly missed and forever remembered.
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