Roswitha Elisabeth Pillard

Roswitha (Rose) Elisabeth (Koss) Pillard, a cherished mother, sister, and friend, passed away on October 21, 2024, after a fiercely courageous battle with cancer. She leaves behind a loving family, including her two daughters, Beth Adrian (Pillard) Clines and her husband Keith of Gaston, SC, and Heather Marie (Pillard) McManus and her husband Barry of Middletown, CT. Rose's spirit lives on in her grandchildren, Riley Rose McManus and Connor David McManus.

She is also survived by her brother Dieter Koss and his wife Jackie of Stuart, Florida; her sister Annetha (Koss) Lisitano and her husband Nicholas of Middletown, CT; her sister Hannelore Vierus of Rellingen, Germany; her nieces and nephews, Michelle (Koss) Foster, Deb (Koss) Dorsey, Christopher Lisitano, and Stephen Lisitano, along with numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, and friends who lovingly called her "Mom".

Rose was predeceased by her parents, Reinhold and Martha Koss, her brother-in-law Paul Vierus, her son Mark Friedrich Pillard, and her beloved granddog, Olive Hiccup McManus.

Emigrating from Weingarten, Germany at the age of six, Rose embraced her heritage and instilled many cherished German customs in her family. She will be remembered for her exceptional cooking, her creativity in sewing and crafting, and her love of treasure hunting at tag sales. Rose's annual camping trips to Hammonasset Beach and her fondness for seafood at Johnny Ads brought her immense joy. Known as the CVS "photo lady," she formed lasting connections with her customers, always offering warmth and generosity.

Her unwavering fighting spirit, often described as her "German stubbornness", was a testament to her character. Rose was a devoted mother, determined to make the most of life for her daughters, and her legacy of love and resilience will forever remain in our hearts.

Though her passing leaves a profound void, we find comfort in the wonderful memories and traditions she created. In her honor, we invite you to gather with family and friends, play a round of rummy, setback, or Mensch argere dich nicht, enjoy a drink of Mr. Boston Blackberry Brandy, and dance to the music of Carole King and Simply Red.

Rose's spirit will continue to inspire us, reminding us to cherish each moment and celebrate life.