Ora Lee Roscoe

If you're reading this, it means the good Lord has called me home, and I have finally traded in my Sunday best for a heavenly robe. Don't cry too hard now—I lived a full and beautiful life, filled with love, laughter, and just the right amount of mischief. I was born on August 2, 1943, in Drew, Mississippi, to my wonderful parents, Clyde and Idella Staples. Being one of 22 children (yes, you read that right!), I learned early on how to hold my own, love deeply, and talk louder than the rest to be heard. Sixteen of my siblings went on before me, but I know they're waiting with open arms, probably saving me a seat at the best table up here. At just 16 years old, I married my sweetheart, William Roscoe, Sr. Now, he was only 19 at the time, so I like to say I helped raise him too! For 64 wonderful years—yes, sixty-four—he was my rock, my heart, and my best friend. Through thick and thin, he was right there, making me laugh and making sure I never ran out of something good to eat. I accepted Christ at an early age, and let me tell you, He has been faithful to me every step of the way. When I moved to Chicago in 1974, I found my church home at Helping Hand Baptist Church, where I sang my heart out in the choir. Later, I joined Sunny Mt. Zion before returning to Helping Hand in 2010, where I had the honor of serving on the Mother’s Board. My faith was my foundation, and I carried it with me through every season of life. Now, let’s talk about my real passions—shopping, dining at the finest restaurants, and a little slot machine action at the casino. Y’all know I loved a good outing, especially if it involved food and fun. And of course, nothing brought me more joy than being surrounded by my family, reminiscing about the old days, and laughing until our stomachs hurt. Those were the best moments, the ones I held closest to my heart. Of course, my greatest love was for my family. My beloved son, William Roscoe, Jr., went on before me, but I know he is waiting with a smile, reminding me that he's still my baby. I leave behind my devoted husband, William Roscoe, Sr.; two beautiful daughters, Precious Upchurch of Chicago, IL, and Linda (Vernon) Morris of St. Louis, MO; six loving sisters, Rosie Ellis of Detroit, MI, Ella (Larry) Slacks of Lombard, IL, Clytee Upchurch of Chicago, IL, Pearlie Mae Staples of Chicago, IL, Leflora Spivey of Florissant, MO, and Margaret White of St. Louis, MO; and special goddaughter, Shelia Dean of Chicago, IL. I also leave behind a whole host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends—too many to name, but trust me, I love every single one of you! To my family—don’t spend too much time crying. I am at peace, and I know I’ll see you again. Instead, honor me by loving each other, sticking together, and keeping the laughter alive. And please, for the love of good taste, make sure my girls don’t let my husband out of the house looking any kind of way.  Until we meet again, know that I am watching over you, probably sitting back with a heavenly feast in front of me, smiling and shaking my head at y’all. Stay strong, stay faithful, and most of all—keep the joy alive.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ora Lee Roscoe, please visit our floral store.