ROSA INGRAM

Rosa Lee Ingram was born to the union of Katherine and Paul Miller, the youngest child and only daughter. She was raised in the oldest Black community of Spartanburg, South Carolina, the historical Back of the College neighborhood; it was a vibrant and close-knit community. As she matured, she left Spartanburg following family for better opportunities in the bustling metropolis of Chicago and became a lifelong resident of Chicago Southside. There, she lovingly became known as Rose.

She was joined in Holy Matrimony to Wilson Ingram from 1958 until his passing. Their union was filled with love and laughter. Their love was blessed with a daughter, Rochelle Ingram. Through this union, she gained two additional daughters: Maude Williams and Wilma Ingram.

Rose dedicated her life to Christ and was a long-time member of Maryland Avenue Baptist Church.

She worked as a clerk for the Chicago Police Department and retired in 1994. 

Rose was known for her joyous annual 4th of July celebrations that bought together her beloved family, friends, and community.  They were filled with conversation, swaging music, and bountiful food.  She made sure all those in attendance would be left full; both in bellies and memories. A natural conversationalist, she managed to uplift all those with whom she shared space.  She offered both stories and advice. She always brought plenty of smiles to people’s faces. Rose was known for her natural comedic talents. Her humor and wit were unmatched. Even though in her later years she faced food restrictions, she did not let that stop her from eyeing and trying to sneak a delicious snack. This also extends to her not giving up on the idea of love and romance. She was forever the romantic and saw the beauty in what this life had to give.   

Loved ones who preceded her in death are her husband, Wilson Ingram; parents: Katherine and Paul Miller; daughter, Maude Williams; older brother, Robert Miller: sister-in-law, Lula Miller and a nephew, Darius Miller I. 

Rose leaves behind to cherish her memory daughters: Rochelle and Wilma Ingram; grandchildren: Selinda Johnson, Johnnie Williams, Tony Stevenson, and Marshall Stevenson; nephews: Rodrick (Fatima) Miller, Byron (Linda) Miller and Stefan Miller; niece, Lisa Miller; great grandchildren: Derius, Dominique, Neal, Gabrielle and a host of beloved nieces and nephews.