DEBORAH REGINA WHITE-ROSE

Mrs. Deborah Regina White-Rose was born on September 4, 1950, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Her parents, Mr. Roscoe S. Wilson and Mrs. Bonita M. Wilson, although young, were determined to raise a child who had opportunities that exceeded theirs. Deborah did this and more! She excelled academically and socially. During her early years, she attended George Washington Carver School #87 in Indianapolis, Indiana. When not in school, Deborah spent time with her grandparents, Ruby and Lee West, who were her roots. They instilled love and a sense of family in her. She also spent time with her sister, Sharon, her brother, Dwayne, and her cousins, Donna, Tricia, Nichole, Ronnie, and Gary; they were inseparable. Although cousins, their relationship was similar to that of siblings. They played and joked with one another for hours on end. Deborah, being the oldest, took it upon herself to makes sure that everyone acted as they had been taught at home. This demonstrated her love for family. Deborah continued her education at historic Crispus Attucks High School, where she graduated with honors. She was a proud member of the class of 1968. Deborah was on the homecoming court, was honored as a Betty Crocker Award recipient, and was voted senior class secretary. Deborah never met a stranger and treated everyone kindly. This demonstrated her ability to make everyone feel comfortable in their own skin. Her pursuit of knowledge did not stop there as Deborah attended Ball State University to obtain a degree in education. She later transferred to Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis to continue with her undergraduate studies. While there, Deborah pledged to Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. She developed lasting bonds with her sorors. She eventually married her high school sweetheart, Mr. Delbert White, Sr. To this union, three children were born' infant White, Delbert, Jr., and DeMeita. Over the years, Delbert, Jr., and DeMeita brought her much joy! They both graduated from high school and from college. She enjoyed talking to them and spending time with them regularly. Deborah's children chose career paths that followed her passions. Delbert became a chef and DeMeita became a teacher. Deborah was employed with Indianapolis Public Schools after graduating from college. She earned a master's degree and worked at Wood high School, William A. Bell #60, Shortridge Middle School, Arlington High School and Harshman Middle School during her professional career. She touched the lives of many students and colleagues during her tenure as an English teacher. Deborah chaperoned trips to Washington, DC., tutored after school, coached the cheerleading team, and participated in the YMCA's men's essay contest. She nurtured every student that she taught. To Deborah, every student was able to learn. In later years, she would affectionately be known as "Mama Rose" by many whom she touched. Deborah was named in Who's Who Among American Teachers for her accomplishments. She could always set a goal and bring it to fruition. Being a person who loved to connect with others, Deborah met and later married Mr. Louis C. Rose who she first saw at church. They got married in December of 1989. To this union, a blessing was given in the form of their daughter, Sabrena. She brought many laughs to the family and was taught to never settle for anything less than her best. Sabrena graduated from high school and college like her siblings had done, for education was important in the home. Sabrena went on to become an English teacher like mother. Deborah retired in 2010 after thirty-eight years of service in education. Little did she know, this was the beginning of her season of harvest. It was during this time that Deborah saw the seeds that she planted in the form of her children grow into ripe fruit. Her children got married and she was able to witness the birth of her grandchildren. She happily welcomed Autumn, Dondre, Arielle, Zara, and Nevaeh to the family and showered them with love. This kept her youthful. It was not uncommon to see Granny/Gi Gi at the store purchasing toys that her grandchildren did not really need but simply wanted. They had her wrapped around their finger and she was not going to disappoint her babies. They will forever have memories of her dancing, laughing, baking, and comforting them at home and on family vacations. She very much enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Christmas was her favorite holiday. Deborah kept the family traditions going long after her grandmother passed. Friends and family were fed physically and emotionally. Her favorite part of the meal was the appetizer and the desserts. To her, the entrees were not what made the meal great-it was the fellowship. These celebrations lasted for hours on end! This annual tradition continued until 2020 when Deborah's health weakened. In addition to loving her family, Deborah also loved the Lord. She was raised in a Christian household and was baptized at Christ Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend Dr. Melvin B. Girton. Deborah served as a nurse, worked on the culinary committee, and sang in the choir. In her later years, she united with Olivet Missionary Baptist Church under the direction of Dr. Wayne L. Moore. Deborah lovingly encouraged others and worked with the culinary committee during Vacation Bible School. When finished serving in the kitchen, she could be found near her grandchildren who were also in attendance. Deborah loved to fellowship, hear the preaching, and hear the singing at church. Most of all, she loved the pastor and the first lady who she babysat as a youth. Deborah faithfully attended Olivet in person until her health began to fail. She then attended service virtually. She had immense dedication to serving the Lord. Deborah departed this earthly life on Thursday, May 5, 2022, at the age of seventy-one. She spent seven days in the intensive care unit where she spoke with family and friends and praised the Lord. The Father knew that her big heart, although weakened, had completed the assignment. As her loved ones surrounded her, her spirit was lovingly welcomed by her ancestors. In order to comfort those around, the angels played "Going Up Yonder" on the radio in her room. Although saddened by her transition, we are so glad that she is preparing a place for us when we are called. Her life is a testament of how, when planted in the right soil, a tree can bear good fruit. Deborah was preceded in death by her father, Mr. Roscoe Wilson, her mother, Mrs. Bonita Cannedy, her uncle, Mr. Charles E. West, and her brother, Mr. Dwayne Dodson, Sr. She is survived by; her husband, Mr. Louis C. Rose; her sister, Ms. Sharon L. Dodson; her son, Mr. Delbert White, Jr.; daughters, Mrs. DeMeita Vincent (Jonathan) and Mrs. Sabrena Tichenor (Terrell); five grandchildren, Autumn, Dondre, Arielle, Zara, and Naveah; two nieces, LaKeisha Britt (Tra'Shawn) and Kelcey Dodson; nephew, Dwayne Dodson, Jr. (Victoria); eleven great-nieces and great-nephews; four godchildren, Demetria, Louis, Caleb, and Ryan; as well as a host of cousins, colleagues, students, friends, and family.