Rose Marie O'Keefe

Rose Marie (McManus) O’Keefe, of West Chester, PA, passed away suddenly at her home on May 29, 2025, at the age of 84.

Born December 5,1940 in Darby, PA, she was the daughter of Eugene J. McManus and Madeliene K. McManus. They resided in Havertown, PA. Rose Marie attended Sacred Heart of Manoa for grade school, she elected Notre Dame Moylan for High School in Rose Valley, where she developed lifelong friendships.

Upon graduation from high school, Rose Marie started her career at the Marine Corp located at 1100 South Broad as the General’s Secretary. After an illustrious career, she met the love of her life, Francis T. O’Keefe Jr. They were married November 21,1964 and in 1965 settled in West Chester, PA. After the birth of their first-born son, Kevin, in the Fall of 1971, they had a short stay in Rochester, New York, they returned to Chester County in 1974 and resided in their current residence on Lochwood Lane North. After settling into their home, they welcomed their second son, Brian Thomas, to complete their family.

Rose Marie and Fran became very active in the local community, especially at their local parish. Being involved allowed Rose Marie to reconnect with many of her childhood friends who also made their way and settled into Chester County. Along with being a mother, she pursued her professional work and began employment with Systems Computer Technology (SCT). Rose Marie maintained important decisions that allowed her to be a part of the growth the company and travel the world. She developed professional relationships that carried her through her 35-year career. For over 20 years she and Fran became active members of the Philadelphia Chapter of Legatus, allowing them to practice their faith and strengthen their friendship in the Philadelphia area. After her retirement from SCT, Rose Marie was still eager to give back to the community and restarted her career as an Executive Assistant to the Founder at Catholic Leadership Institute. Rose Marie, through her entire professional career, was respected and looked upon as a staple of excellence.

Rose Marie was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother, Eugene Jr. She is survived by her husband, Francis T. O’Keefe Jr. whom she was married to for over 60 years, her two sons Kevin and Brian (Paige), and grandchildren Chase, Maddie, and Colin. She is also survived by many treasured extended family members and friends who adored her.

In the twilight of her life, you could find Rose Marie and Fran at any sporting event, recitals, Grandparents’ Day, and various school activities cheering on what became her pride and joy, her beloved grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to her Viewing beginning at 9:45 AM on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Saint Agnes Church, 233 W. Gay St. West Chester, PA, followed by her Funeral Mass at 12 Noon.

Interment will be private

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Rose Marie’s name to Malvern Preparatory School, 418 S. Warren Ave. Malvern, PA 19355 -  www.malvernprep.org

or

Academy of Notre Dame de Namur, 560 Sproul Rd. Villanova, PA 19085 - www.ndapa.org