Rose Elaine Colegrove

Rose Elaine Dees Colegrove, age 79, of Ocean Springs, MS passed away Thursday, June 26, 2025, in Ocean Springs. Rose was born January 30th, 1946, in Milford, MI to George Daniel and Goldie Phoebe Priestly Dees. She attended Milford High School in Milford, MI. Rose was a resident of Ocean Springs since 1970 and attended the Ocean Springs Church of Christ since 1976.

Rose lived a life of purpose, creativity, and devotion. In her younger years, she and her beloved husband, Ron, enjoyed square dancing together, a joyful reflection of the partnership and fun they shared. Her deep faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she poured her heart into serving her church family. Rose was instrumental in countless ministries alongside her husband Ron and Gene and Eileen Logan, including Children’s Bible Hour, Vacation Bible School and the food pantry. Rose was the creative force behind Vacation Bible School, puppet shows, flip charts, bulletin boards, and church events that brought joy and inspiration to all who attended.

She faithfully taught the 2- and 3-year-olds at church for many years, nurturing young hearts with love and patience. Rose also lent her organizational talents to the church’s supply room and the fellowship hall, always keeping things in their place to make it easier for everyone else.

She had a remarkable gift for hospitality and loved to entertain. Her home was always open, warm, and full of laughter.

Rose devoted many years to caring for children in her home, choosing to care for one at a time so she could give her full heart and attention. Her love for children was evident in everything she did. As the matriarch of the family, she took great joy in hosting family gatherings and creating lasting memories through celebrations filled with love, creativity, and care.

Rose’s legacy is one of faith, service, love, and unwavering devotion to both her church and her family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Rose is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ronald Lee Colegrove; her son, Russell Lee Colegrove; and 5 siblings.

Rose’s survivors include her children, Stacy M. McCain, Scott A. Colegrove, Roxane D. Dykes (Jason), and Cameron D. Colegrove (Erinn); her grandchildren, Lynae Turnage (Michael), Brittanie DePew (Eddie), Victoria Degeyter (James), Lauren Colegrove, Allison Jacquot (Michael), Katilyn Pion (Don), Wren Colegrove and Liam Carty-Finney, 12 great grandchildren and 3 siblings.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to our Ocean Springs Church family, our friends and family for their outpouring of prayers, love, encouragement and support during this difficult time.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Ocean Spring Church of Christ, 1116 Washington Ave, Ocean Springs, MS on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 2 pm. Visitation to begin at 1 pm with a reception immediately follow the service.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Rose Elaine Dees Colegrove.