Rose Wanat

A Life Well-Lived: Remembering Rose Sepulvado Wanat

Ringgold, Georgia – Rose Sepulvado Wanat, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025, with her devoted family by her side. Born on May 14, 1930, in Zwolle, Louisiana, Rose's journey was one marked by courage, compassion, and an unyielding zest for life. She now rests in eternal peace, reunited with the love of her life, her husband John Wanat, who preceded her in death on February 5, 2025.

Rose was the cherished daughter of the late Dora and Christine Sepulvado, and her upbringing on a family farm instilled in her a grounded spirit that would serve her throughout her remarkable life. A true "renaissance lady," Rose fearlessly left that familiar farm to embark on a new adventure, proudly serving her country in the United States Navy. It was during her time in uniform that fate intervened, and she met the man who would become her soulmate, John Wanat. Their love story spanned decades, filled with shared dreams, enduring partnership, and the creation of a beautiful family.

After the arrival of her eight children, Rose, pursued another long-held ambition. With characteristic determination, at the age of 47, she enrolled in nursing school. Her innate compassion and dedication shone brightly, culminating not only in her graduation but also in the distinguished honor of being chosen as the "Most Outstanding Nurse" by her fellow graduates. This accomplishment launched a fulfilling career dedicated to caring for others, beginning at Parkridge Medical Center in Chattanooga and culminating in her retirement as an emergency room nurse in Ft. Myers, Florida.

In their golden years, Rose and John embraced retirement with gusto, enjoying many happy years filled with travel and adventure. Rose, ever keen on staying connected, delighted in the latest happenings within her sprawling family, a testament to her deep and abiding love for each and every one. She approached life with an infectious enthusiasm, finding joy in simple pleasures, particularly her beloved garden, where her green thumb brought beauty to life.

Rose's unwavering faith as a devout Catholic was a cornerstone of her existence. For many years, she was a dedicated communicant of St. Gerard Catholic Church, and even when she was no longer able to attend services, her prayers continued to uplift and offer comfort to all in need. Her spiritual devotion was a guiding light, providing strength and solace throughout her journey.

Rose was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John; her oldest son, Gary Wanat; and grandchildren, Justin Lee, Casey Wanat, Savannah Wanat, and son-in-law, Reggie Swick, as well as her five sisters.

Left behind to cherish her memories and share countless stories are her devoted children: Dale (Freda) Wanat of Cleveland, Tennessee; Greg (Krista) Wanat of Birmingham, Alabama; Karen (Keith) Sloan of East Ridge, Tennessee; Kathleen Swick of Atlanta, Georgia; Sandy (Chris) Eslinger of Chattanooga, Tennessee; Cheryl (Mike) Fuery of Ft. Myers, Florida; Ron Wanat of Tampa, Florida; and daughter-in-law Michelle Wanat of Knoxville, Tennessee. Her legacy also lives on through her thirteen grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and a host of cherished nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to express their profound gratitude for the outstanding and compassionate care provided to Rose by The Canopy at Boynton Ridge and Tapestry Hospice. Their love and unwavering support of Rose and her family will never be forgotten.

Rose's family is left with a treasure trove of fun memories, a testament to her vibrant personality and the joy she brought to every gathering. While her physical presence will be deeply missed, her spirit, her resilience, and her boundless love will forever resonate in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you consider a donation to your favorite charity in Rose's memory. Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Ft. Oglethorpe, Georgia. A private service will be held at the Chattanooga National Cemetery at a later date, where Rose will be laid to rest with military honors along with her husband, a fitting tribute to a remarkable woman who served her country, her community, and her family with unwavering devotion.