Rose Etta Sears, age 91, born on August 24, 1935, in Barbourville, Kentucky, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Laurel Heights in London, Kentucky.
Rose’s life was a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the power of love. She dedicated her life to serving others with grace and compassion first at Hillcrest Nursing Home, where she worked in the cafeteria, and later at Lynn Camp School. Her gentle spirit and warm smile brought comfort to all who crossed her path. A devoted member of the Lily Holiness Church, Rose found joy in her church family and was a steadfast volunteer at the church’s food pantry.
In her personal life, Rose had a profound love for nature and creativity. Her garden was a vibrant testament to her nurturing spirit, blossoming with the same vibrancy she brought to the lives of those around her. She found solace and joy in her flower-filled gardens and the rhythmic hum of a sewing machine, where countless pieces were lovingly crafted. In her younger years, she embraced the great outdoors, creating memories through camping adventures that were shared with family and friends.
Rose was preceded in death by her parents, Oval Richard Hutton and Ida Mary Robinson Hutton; her son, Thomas Michael McCreary; brother, Clifton Hutton and Clofus Hutton; sisters, Faye Hembree, Mabel Irene Broughton, and Matha Broughton; and by a granddaughter, Shawna Michelle McCreary.
She is survived by her daughters, Bonnie Doolin (Robert), Gwen Smith (Keith), Rose Mary McCreary, Judy McCreary; and Pamela Ammerman (Duane); sister, Phyllis Bargo; grandchildren, Tonya Hayre (Ron), Eric Rogers (Jessica), Lisa Dozier (Nick), Shane Hubbs (Mindy), Kayla Filiatreau (Tyler), Steven Smith (Amy), April Patterson (Jason), Travis McCreary (Lisa) Jessica Davis, Whitney McDaniel (Travis), and Stephanie Jones (Alex); 26 great grandchildren; and one great great grandson; and by many nieces, nephews, church family, and friends.
Visitation will be on Thursday, November 5, 2026, from 12noon until the time of her funeral service at 2:00 pm at the Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home, with Rev. Ryan Osborne officiating.
Burial will follow in Cumberland Memorial Gardens in Lily, KY.
Messages may be written to the family at vankirkgrisellfuneralhome.com
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