Rose was born on May 22, 1938 to Margaret and John F. McShea in Philadelphia where she grew up with her older brother Johnny.
She attended St. Hubert Catholic High School for Girls where she made many lifelong friends.
Since her youth Rose was adventurous with a fearless and independent spirit. As a self described tomboy, she enjoyed exploring the world around her, had a special love of horseback riding and even the occasional drag race!
When Rose met George he stole her heart. They married in 1957 and had four children together. Rose remained a loving and devoted wife to George for an incredible 67 years.
While raising their four children Rose worked at The Temperance House ("The Temp") in Newtown for many years. With her friendly, outgoing personality, she was always popular, making enduring friendships along the way. Rose loved hosting and gathering with loved ones, making everyone feel welcome and included.
Rose later became a Bucks County realtor for over 20 years and was consistently well liked and respected for her hard work. Her entrepreneurial interest took shape with "Rose's Sprouts", selling a variety of home grown sprouts to area restaurants and health food stores.
Rose was a loving and caring mother, be it firm or fun, and instilled in her children the strong morals and beliefs for which she was known. She and George went on to build their dream house in the woods of Wrightstown, a place beloved by all who visited.
Family and faith were very important to her and she was proud of her Irish heritage, staying close to her large extended family.
Rose was warm and kind, caring and considerate and treated everyone with respect and compassion. She was intelligent, sassy, strong and determined. An excellent cook, her wonderful holiday dinners were always something to look forward to. She loved dogs, horses, a crisp chardonnay and going to the beach with her girlfriends. With her smiling Irish eyes, great humor and infectious laughter she will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.
Rose is survived by her husband George W.Keegan, Jr. and her four children: Terrance Keegan (Geilza), Jennifer Richardson (Tom), George W. Keegan, III (Barbara), Nancy Keegan and grandchildren: Shana Keegan, Thomas T. Richardson, Leanna Keegan, Julie Keegan and Ryan Keegan. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Jeanne Gerstle (Gustav III) as well as many nieces and nephews. Rose was preceded in death by her dear brother, John J. McShea and her parents, Margaret and John F. McShea.
Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Saturday, January 13, 2024 from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm at James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, Inc., 2200 Trenton Road, Levittown, PA 19057. Interment will be held privately.
