Shirley Rose Rosalis

Shirley Rose Rosalis, native Biloxian, born June 21, 1941, passed away July 18, 2013. Shirley was a vibrant and fiercely strong-willed woman. She possessed a magnetic charm and wit that drew people to her and made them feel counted in this world. She could meet a stranger and they would be a friend by the time the conversation was over. Once a wrong number called the house and she spoke with them for 20 minutes! When she was asked who it was, her reply was, "It was a wrong number..." then proceeded to tell all about "the-wrong-number" person. She was amazing, friendly, welcoming, and above all else, a caring friend, mother, sister. She loved Rock-n-Roll music and was a fantastic dancer. She and her partner, Robert Kostmayer, were often stopped after exiting the dance floor and complimented on their dance moves. She delighted in setting out on camping excursions and enjoyed fishing in the Gulf. Shirley valued her independence and lived life honestly and on her own terms, making no apologies for who she was or what she believed. She enjoyed her life and welcomed those around her to join her life. Ms Rosalis is preceded in death by her parents, Roy Rosalis and Rena (LeBlanc) Rosalis, and her sister, Barbara (Rosalis) Ward. She is survived by her daughter, Joby Landers Robertson, her two granddaughters, Kaleigh Rigdon Naylor and Dina Rigdon Zirlott, her four great grandchildren, and her sister, Debra (Rosalis) Roberts. Shirley was beautiful, intelligent, and like us all, painfully and wonderfully human. Her family loved her unconditionally and through all trials. We celebrate her life and will miss her, forever. A private gathering will be held for immediate family. The Howard Avenue Chapel of Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.