Rosalee Elaine Wofford

Roe was born on September 29, 1941 in Holly, Michigan to Floyd and Margaret Young and was the eldest of seven children. Roe spent her school years in Holly and returned often for family vacations and visits throughout her life. She is preceded in death by her siblings Johnny, Rosemary “Mousie,” and Yvonne, and survived by her siblings Wayne (Judy), Peggy (Dan) and Al (Patti). Roe’s siblings describe her as a confident, responsible caregiver who grew up quickly, while also highlighting her unmatched sense of humor and willingness to engage in practical jokes. Indeed, in her final days, when asked what she would do if she could do anything for a day, Roe shared she would spend the day playing with all of her siblings in the field near their home.

On January 28, 1961, Roe married Gordon “Gordie” Wofford of Detroit, who she met while on a blind date (with his friend!). The two were married for 57 years before his passing in 2018 and are now rejoined in death. Gordie was not shy about his love for his wife and would tell anyone who would listen how much he loved her and how lucky he was to share a life with her. Together, Roe and Gordie raised their three children, Kevin (Mary), Sheri (Kevin), and Maggie (Darin). They describe their mother as caring and supportive, noting she evolved from a parent to a best friend throughout her life.

Of her many roles, Roe especially cherished being “Grandma Roe” to her grandchildren Jeremy (Heather), Marcus (Madi), and Danielle (Ken), her great grandchildren Hannah, Aiden, Rosalee (her namesake), and Emmett, and countless others whom she considered her own. Relatives, friends, and neighbors alike were proud to call her Grandma Roe, and her grandchildren describe her as family-centered, kind, warm, gentle, and patient. They recall her unconditional love, constant presence, and continuous support regardless of the paths they took in life and the bumps they faced (even the self-inflicted ones) along the way.

In her spare time, Roe loved to garden, read, watch Hallmark movies, travel, and spend time with family and friends. She particularly enjoyed her trips to the Smoky Mountains and collected black bear decor for decades. She thrived in warm weather, though mostly steered clear of the water, aside from a particularly brave kayaking trip in her 80’s where — to two of her children’s dismay — she floated amongst alligators in her swimsuit. All who knew her will remember her wit, sense of humor, generosity, and tenacity (see: stubbornness).

In her final weeks, Roe received dozens of visitors from near and far who reminisced with her at her bedside. She shared many laughs and expressed feeling loved and grateful for the space to reflect. Consistent with her wishes, the family will have a small memorial service on the family property in Holly at a future date.