Rosa Stallard

Rosa Lee "Rosie" Israel Stallard, age 87, passed away on April 14, 2021 in Pass Christian, MS. She was born November 23, 1933 in Fletcher, North Carolina to Lewis Watson Israel, Sr. and Mary Mabel Davidson.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul; her son, Phillip; her daughter, Paula Stallard Whitehead, her parents; two sisters, Mary Kate and Irene; her brother John, and other friends and loved ones.

She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Amy and Bob Ramsak and Heather and David Anderson; grandchildren Melissa (Evans) and Justin Davidson, Katie (Anderson) and Brent Charles Alexander, Carrie, Landrum, and Brendan Anderson; step-grandchildren and their spouses, Rob, Ronda, Derek, Rachel, Seth, Kelly, Matt and Wendy Ramsak and Megan and Shane Dickerson; several step-great-grandchildren; her brothers and sisters-in-law; many nieces, nephews; Israel and Stallard family members; special friends Robert Steele and Steve Rowland; and other extended family and friends.

After graduating from Candler High school, Rosie earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education at Berea College, where she met her beloved husband of 60 years, Paul Clay Stallard. She also earned a master's degree in special education from the University of Houston. Rosie taught regular and special education in Texas, Kentucky and Louisiana, retiring in 1992 from Orleans Parish Schools. She was a strong supporter of and advocate for her students, who could often be found at the table in the family's New Orleans home, receiving extra help from "Mrs. Stallard."

Rosie was sharp-witted and liked to have a good time. She loved to read and fostered a love of reading and learning in her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed crosswords and other puzzles and was a phenomenal Scrabble player. Her favorite activities were those shared with family. She spent many hours supporting her family's interests, from Boy and Girl Scouts and youth group to painting and gingerbread houses. Among the many skills she taught her family were making Christmas cookies, catching Mardi Gras beads and doubloons, crabbing, and snagging a table at Café Du Monde. She was talented at arts, crafts, and sewing. Her family will always treasure the many beautiful quilts she made for them. Upon retirement, Rosie and Paul moved to Asheville, North Carolina and spent many happy years traveling, visiting with family and friends, and enjoying the beauty of the mountains.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Pass Christian Health and Rehabilitation Center for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a library or literacy charity of your choice.

RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, is serving the family. An online obituary may be viewed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com