Rosa Mae Skinner-Reese, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend was born on August 9, 1943 in Birmingham, Alabama to the late Sam William Brown and Eddie Mae Smith. As a child, she always found herself having to prove that size was not going to be a deterrent in her life. Although only reaching the height of 5'4", Rosa grew to be a force to be reckoned with. Rosa packed her zest for life in her bags and relocated to Canton, Ohio. She ultimately began working for the Jobs and Family Services Department where she met many of her dearest friends. After 35 years of dedicated service, Rosa retired and devoted the remaining of her life to her church, family and creating the tastiest of cuisines. Rosa was a member of Jerusalem Baptist Church in Canton, Ohio where she ushered in the spirit of the Lord while serving on the church's praise and worship team. She later joined the Abundance of God Christian Church and continued to also bless that ministry with her beautiful voice. Preceding her in death was husband Clinton Reese, brother Cleophus Smith, nephew Marvin Smith, and grandson Al'Shawn Thomas. Rosa was called home by the Lord on June 4, 2024, leaving behind a legacy as the matriarch of the Brown-Smith family. She leaves to cherish her memory: her sister, Samella Chatman; her children, Steve Thomas Jr. (Jeanna) and Rose Stevens (Robert); 6 grandchildren: India Thomas, Danielle Gardner, La'Don Thomas, Malik Willis, Stephen Thomas, and Robyn Stevens: 12 great-grandchildren; a special friend: Brenda Currence; along with a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, church members, and friends.

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