Rosemary Britt

Born in Farwell Texas in 1929, Rosemary lived a life overcoming many tragedies. She lived` through the Depression years in the “Dust bowl of Texas". After losing a sibling from suffocation by dust, her father packed the family up and moved them to Colorado during the late 30's. Returning to Texas, outside of Dallas, she always told the stories of how she would sneak food out to the barn to feed outlaws Bonnie and Clyde. In the early 40's, Rosemary played catch outside the internment camps with her sister while their father repaired the roofs of the dormitories. The ball would often go over the fence and the children inside would throw the ball back. Rosemary graduated from Summerfield High School in New Summerfield, Texas in 1948. Rosemary attended college then married. She endured the deaths of two husbands while living in Texas.

Rosemary moved to Salem, Oregon in 1955 at eight months pregnant and toddler in tow to join her third husband, Bob. They had five children who kept them busy. There was never a dull moment in their lives. Rosemary began work in 1970 at Oregon Fruit Products where she continued to work to earn a life pension for retirement. Bob sadly died in 1981. Two of their sons and one granddaughter died later; the eldest son due to the Vietnam War and the youngest son and granddaughter to cancer. No sympathy grew in this home only strength.

Rosemary enjoyed reading, gardening, canning and watching plays at the Pentacle Theatre. She faced many mile stones in her life, including celebrating her 80th birthday. Her courage in the face of a horrible lung disease should not go unmentioned as she faced her biggest challenge.

She will forever be loved and missed by her surviving 3 children, 1 daughter-in-law, 6 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. She will now join her closest lifelong friends and family members.

“The respect we have for our mother will always continue throughout our lives. Mom, check on the boys and Misty for us. We thank you every day for teaching us to be proud of who we are.”

At Rosemary’s request there will be no services or viewing. Placement will be at City View Cemetery, April 12 at 1pm for immediate family only. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to Odyssey Hospice, 707 13th St SE Salem, OR 97301. Arrangements by Howell-Edwards-Doerksen with Rigdon-Ransom Funeral Directors.