Rosie Lee

Wilson

Rosie Lee Johnson was born on Saturday, October 20, 1951, in Bald Knob, Arkansas, to the loving union of Roosevelt Johnson Sr. and Ruby McKinney Johnson. From an early age, Rosie was an exceptionally bright, inquisitive, and caring child. She possessed a natural curiosity and a strong sense of responsibility, and she was known for striving to do her very best.

Rosie began her formal education at White County Training School in Searcy, Arkansas, where she attended from first through seventh grade. In 1965, as schools began to integrate, she transitioned to Bald Knob Public Schools. There, Rosie continued to excel academically and became actively involved in school life. She was a member of the Beta Club, an honors organization recognizing academic achievement. She participated in the Band during her senior year and demonstrated leadership by serving as a class officer. Her dedication to her education and commitment to excellence were evident throughout her school years. In 1971, she proudly graduated with honors.

Rosie continued her pursuit of excellence at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (APB).

While there, she devoted herself to her studies and became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. In 1974, Rosie achieved another remarkable milestone, graduating Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy.

After graduating from UAPB, she moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to begin her professional career. She spent several years working in the accounting department at Blue Cross Blue Shield, putting her education, discipline, and talents to work. Rosie later joined the Internal Revenue Service as an auditor for the United States government, beginning what would become an extraordinary 33-year career of dedicated service. For more than three decades, she built a legacy of professionalism, commitment, and perseverance before retiring after a long and accomplished career.

From a bright and curious young girl in Bald Knob, Arkansas, to a longtime federal employee, Rosie Lee Wilson's journey is one marked by excellence, determination, leadership, and achievement. At every stage of her life, she demonstrated what could be accomplished through education, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

While in Milwaukee, Rosie married Grant Wilson, Jr. on May 3rd, 1977, and they kept each other grounded for 43 years. Rosie and Grant were blessed with 5 wonderful children, three daughters + two sons: Vonetta Wilson, Grant Wilson Ill, Christopher Wilson, Stephanie Wilson, and Phylicia Wilson. They taught their children the value of putting God first, the importance of family, and education. Rosie and Grant relocated to Grand Rapids, MI where they planted their roots. The family joined New Hope Baptist Church under the Pastoral leadership of Rev. John V. Williams.

Rosie was a devoted mother and grandmother who showed her love for her family in countless ways. She loved to cook and bake, often using treasured recipes passed down from her mother and father. She made every child's birthday special by baking their favorite cake. Rosie would often cook each child whatever they wanted individually, and that same love and care continued with her grandchildren.

Rosie was involved in her children's education, helping them with homework and remaining persistent about the importance of education throughout their lives. She wanted her children and grandchildren to understand the value of learning, working hard, and doing their best.

Rosie was a dedicated booster at Central High School, where she ran the concession stand and organized raffles at games. She supported not only her own child but also other students, helping raise funds to keep athletic programs and other youth activities running. Working closely with other parents, Rosie helped coordinate events and ensure that everything flowed smoothly. Her generosity, teamwork, and commitment made a meaningful difference in the lives of many young people.

Rosie Wilson was preceded in death by her husband, Grant Wilson Jr.; mother & father, Roosevelt & Ruby McKinney Johnson; sister, Future McKinney; brother, Conrad McKinney; and grandson, Jaylin Wilson-Dancler.

Rosie departed on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at Trinity Hospital. Those left to cherish her memories include: two sons: Grant (Ceara) Wilson III of Eugene, OR; Christopher (Melinda) Wilson; three daughters: Vonetta (Purnell) Gates, Stephanie Wilson, and Phylicia Wilson of Grand Rapids, MI; three sisters: Ruby (Ronald) Starks, Tulsa, OK, Eleanor (L.J.) Johnson-Ellis, Milwaukee, WI, Dorris Johnson, Tulsa, OK; two brothers: Wilmer McKinney, Milwaukee, WI & Roosevelt "Bo Bo" (Donnie) Johnson Jr., Tulsa, OK. Seven granddaughters: yanna Wilson, Elena Wilson, Briyanna Dancler, Lia Jones, Christin Wilson, Saveyah "Chloe" Wilson, and Gia Wilson. Lastly, five grandsons: Brian Dancler Jr, Christopher "Brother" Wilson, Donovan Wilson, Quincy Wilson, and Christopher Wilson. Throughout her years, Rosie demonstrated what it meant to be a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, auntie, cousin, and friend.