Rosie Smith

Rosie Veola Smith (Oates) passed away on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at the age of 79. 

She was born on June 8, 1944 in Wynne, Arkansas and nicknamed “Lady” by her family in her youth. 

She graduated from Lincoln High School and later earned a Bachelor‘s Degree in Business Administration from Cardinal Stritch University.  She retired from the State of Wisconsin DOT after 25 years and later prepared personal taxes, remaining active until her passing. 

She was the loving wife of the late Nathan Smith for 63 years. Together, they had three children; Patrice Smith, Jacqueline Jones (Barry), and Nathene Cornelia Katzman (Steven).  She was also the step-mother to Cynthia Renee Smith-Espinoza and the late Richard “Ricky” Smith.  She was preceded in death by her parents; Robert Lee and Cornelia Oates, sisters Virginia Mae Pearson and Lula Mae Smith, brothers Bernice, Lee, and George Oates.  She is survived by her brother, Julius MacArthur Oates. 

Rosie was an adored grandmother (Nana) of Natessya Rose Katzman, Zachary Patrice Smith, Tatum Johanna Katzman, Renata Smith, and Achonte Rodgers. 

She was a blessing to this life and will be missed by a host of other family and friends. 

The family wants to thank Froedtert Hospital in Menomonee Falls and Wauwatosa, the Glendale Care and Rehab Center, and the Aurora Medical Center Grafton that took care of Rosie during her illness. 

A memorial will be dedicated in her honor and announced at a future date.