Rocky Mount -

With his loving family by his side, Gary Lee Rose, age 61, passed away peacefully Saturday evening, October 8, 2022, in Greenville, North Carolina. Gary's journey began December 28, 1960, in Newport News, Virginia as a son born to Tommie and Mamie Smith Rose. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jeff Rose.

Gary's professional life centered not only around his mastered skills in welding and pipe fitting, but also his exceptional leadership and mentoring. He spent forty-two years honing his craft and was highly revered in his trade circles. He became known as one-of-a kind and legendary in his field, leading and training others while also developing lifelong friendships.

Gary had an undeniable love for the beach. Family vacations and day trips were always an anticipated highlight for making cherished memories. He thrived in the salt air, enjoying every moment of long days in the sand—umbrella up, radio playing, soaking up the sun, diving into crashing waves, building frog sand houses, as well as both surf and pier fishing.

Easy to love and easy to like, Gary lived a life full of love, passion, and faith. He will always be remembered for his fierce strength, loyal character, and humbling grace. In the fight of his life, his ever-present courage along with an unfailing faith, magnified, giving him a great strength and peace as he fought a heroic battle against cancer.

Gary is leaving a lifetime of treasured memories for his beloved wife of thirty-nine years, Wendy Owens Rose; daughters, Brittany R. Long (Nick), Mallory Rose, and Gracey Rose; sister-in-law, Laura Carlton (Mark); brother-in-law, Raven Owens; nephews, Bradley Carlton and Petey Smith; niece, Amy Rose Collins; grand dogs, Sophie and Roxi; a caring pastor and church family; along with many special friends and other extended relatives. Gary was especially proud of his grandchildren, Lillie and Nolan Long, and cherished being their "Deda" and spending time with them.

Please join family and friends for a special time to celebrate and remember Gary's wonderful life at Servant's Heart Fellowship, 1663 Goldrock Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 at 2:00 pm, Saturday, October 15, 2022, with Pastor Dan Rolfe officiating.

The family will receive friends prior to the service, beginning at 12:30pm and other times at the home.

While floral tributes are appreciated, those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider Servant's Heart Fellowship – or – https://cholangiocarcinoma.org/

A special note of appreciation is extended to The Service League of Greenville, Inpatient Hospice staff for their compassionate and dedicated care. We are forever grateful to the multiple caregivers who loved and cared for Gary and our family when we needed it most.