Rosie Mae Seals' Obituary
Rosie Barnes Ford Seals, the daughter of the late Issac Barnes Sr. and the late Cynthia Barnes Harris, was born August 8, 1934, in Natchez, MS. She transitioned into her final resting place on Sunday, March 2, 2025, in Natchez, MS, with her family by her side.
Rosie accepted Christ at an early age and united with St. James A.M.E. Church in Cannonsburg, MS. She was a faithful member at St. James A.M.E. Church until relocating to Jackson, MS. and moved her membership to Pearl Street A.M.E. Church. She remained an active faithful member of Pearl Street A.M.E. Church until her health failed.
Rosie completed her Elementary and High School Education in the Natchez-Adams School District. After receiving her high school diploma, she continued her education at Alcorn State University where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education.
She started her career as an Administrative Assistant at Sadie V. Thompson High School in Natchez, MS, while pursuing her Bachelor degree in Elementary Education. After earning her Bachelor degree, Rosie was hired as a teacher at Brumfield Elementary school in Natchez, MS, where she taught for several years. Upon relocation to Jackson, Rosie continued her teaching career at the Mississippi School for the Deaf, dedicating many years to shaping young minds. Her passion for education and commitment to her students left a lasting impact on countless lives. After a fulfilling career, she retired, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom, kindness, and service.
Rosie was united in holy matrimony to her first husband, Henry Ford, in 1954. From this union, two children were born, the late Dr. Cynthia Ford-Hardy and the late Robert Ford. She later united in holy matrimony with James D. Seals in 1963. He was a loving and devoted father to Cynthia and Robert throughout their lives. This union continued for 57 years until James' passing.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her devoted and loving husband; her beloved son, Robert Ford; her adored daughter Dr. Cynthia Ann Ford-Hardy (Dr. Mark Hardy); her cherished grandson Austin Hardy; her kind-hearted sister, Annie Bell Harris; her intelligent brother, Isaac Barnes, Jr.: and her special niece, Dellah B. Green. Though she endured great loss she faced life with resilience and grace.
Rosie is survived by her caring grandson, Mark Gary Hardy, Jr; her devoted sisters, Margaret B. Granger (Houston, TX) and Bessie B. Johnson Natchez, MS); thoughtful brothers, Andrew Barnes (Inglewood, CA) and Willie (Annie) Barnes, (Natchez, MS); nieces, Sabrina, Shauna, Jeffretha and Erika; nephews, Carl (Emma), Kelvin, Stacey, and Andrew Jr.; a host of great nieces, great nephews, cousins; other relatives, church family and friends. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
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