Rosemary Rochester

Rosemary “Rose” Rochester (née Nelson), age 78, of Chester, Pennsylvania, peacefully passed away on January 26, 2026. Born and raised in Chester, she was the beloved daughter of the late Phillip and Cleo Nelson (née Maze) and a proud graduate of Chester High School.

Rose was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Kathleen Moore, and her brother, Dwight Nelson. She is survived by her loving sister, Christine Nelson; her devoted son, Keon Toyer; her daughter-in-law, Demeaka Toyer; and her cherished grandchildren, Camryn, Naevia, Nylah, Nova, Shirley, and Nathanael Toyer, who were the joys of her life. She was also a caring aunt to her niece Naomi Penny and to her late niece Nikki Giovonni, and a dear friend to many who will forever treasure her memory.

Rose was a woman known for her kindness, grace, and quiet strength. She was genuinely loved by all who knew her; warm, welcoming, and unfailingly pleasant to everyone she encountered. Whether with family, friends, or strangers, Rose treated all with dignity, compassion, and respect, leaving a lasting impression through her gentle spirit and generous heart.

A devoted nurse by profession, Rose dedicated her life to caring for others. She viewed nursing not simply as a career, but as a calling. With patience, wisdom, and deep empathy, she tended to her patients with the same love and attentiveness she gave to her own family. Her nurturing presence brought comfort during times of vulnerability, and she earned the admiration and respect of both colleagues and patients. Her legacy of service and compassion will be deeply missed within the healthcare community.

Rose found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved spending time with friends, sharing laughter, conversation, and companionship. She enjoyed roller skating and swimming, activities that reflected her youthful spirit and love for movement. One of her favorite movies was The Color Purple; if it came on, she had to watch it, no matter how many times she had seen it. These simple moments of joy and connection brought her happiness and were a reflection of the warmth she carried into every part of her life.

Rose was deeply rooted in her faith. A devoted Jehovah’s Witness for over 60 years, she served God faithfully and unapologetically. Her faith and family were the foundation of her life, guiding her values, shaping her character, and sustaining her through every season. She lived her beliefs daily through kindness, humility, and steadfast devotion.

Family and friends are invited to attend Rose’s Viewing from 9:00–11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026, at The Knoetgen Donohue Funeral Home, 746 Kedron Avenue, Morton, PA 19070. Interment will be private.

Memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, February 6, 2026, at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 202 West Chester Pike, Ridley Park, Pa. 19078.