In Loving Memory of Rose Marie Smith December 6, 1946 – February 10, 2025
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Rose Marie Smith, a woman of extraordinary beauty, strength, and passion. Born on December 6, 1946, in Queens, New York, Rose was the second daughter of Marie Muñoz, from the Caribbean island of Trinidad, and George Bengali Kebe, a first-generation American born to a Jamaican mother and a father from Côte d’Ivoire, Africa. She carried the rich heritage of her ancestors with pride, embodying the resilience, warmth, and vibrancy of her lineage.
Rose possessed a captivating presence, a gift she inherited from her mother, Marie. She embraced her beauty as a superpower, using it to light up every room she entered and to navigate life with confidence and grace.
She pursued higher education at LaGuardia College in Queens, where she earned an associate degree before launching a career as an executive secretary. After relocating to Florida, she continued her studies at Florida Memorial College, earning a bachelor’s degree in education. She devoted herself to teaching third and fifth grade, passionately guiding her students to excel. Teaching was not just her profession—it was her calling, and she embraced it with an unmatched dedication.
Rose was also a woman of deep creativity. Whether sewing, painting, or adding dazzling embellishments to anything she touched, she had an artistic flair that was truly unique. Fashion was her second language, and she carried herself with elegance and boldness, whether she was heading to the grocery store or enjoying a night on the town. She often spoke of her dream to become a model, though societal expectations kept her from pursuing it. Still, she lived every day as a head-turning diva.
Rose experienced a full life of love and relationships, embracing romance as another one of life’s great adventures. Her first marriage, to Ronald Farouk Glenn, an American whose mother was from Clarendon Parish, Jamaica, and father from North Carolina, a Southern Baptist Pastor of Glendale Baptist Church in Harlem, New York, the marriage lasted two years and brought her first child, Clarissa Marie Glenn.Rose Marie met Norris Forde, a native of Trinidad, the homeland of her mother. Their marriage spanned 17 years and gave her a son, Esan Nigle Forde. Together, Norris and Rose built a life filled with cherished memories—family vacations and moments that are still cherished today. They purchased their first car, bought their first home in Queens, New York, and later relocated to Florida to buy their second home in Miami, Florida. Although their marriage ended in divorce, they found a way to remain friends.
Rose Marie was a cancer survivor who endured many health challenges with resilience and grace. Before any major surgery, she would always say, “I know I am in my Father’s hands, and whatever His will is, I will be with God.” She was always sure in her resolve. Every health challenge was a hurdle and a battle, but Rose Marie endured and persevered.
She faced her struggles with laughter, always looking at the bright side of every circumstance. Reflecting on the most trying days, she would close her eyes, shake her head in wonder at how she pulled through, take a deep sigh of relief, and exclaim, “The Lord was with me,” knowing she was blessed to survive. There were always tears, but soon after, she would find a way to turn the moment into laughter. She would reach for her makeup bag, put on her lipstick and eyeshadow, and declare, “The Diva is back!”—and we would all laugh with her.
As much of a diva as Rose Marie was, there was not a thrift store she didn’t love. She lived to shop, spending hours sifting through racks of clothes, envisioning new styles and unique looks. She delighted in taking her finds home and transforming them into one-of-a-kind pieces—sewing, hemming, bedazzling, or ironing whatever she could to craft a masterful outfit. And while she loved shopping, she was just as passionate about returning. No item was too big, too small, or too many—if it wasn’t quite right, back it went, unapologetically!
Family was deeply important to Rose. She always made sure to stay connected with her brothers and sisters, reaching out with phone calls, cards, and kind words to remind them they were loved. She also extended this love to the younger generation of cousins, always making time for them and being just a phone call away whenever they needed their Aunt.
Rose Marie Smith always understood that love and beauty were among her greatest gifts. Some people are lucky to meet one great love in their lifetime—Rose experienced a lifetime of love, passion, and adventure. She embraced life fully, never allowing fear to hold her back.
She leaves behind her beloved children, Dr. Esan Nigel Forde and Clarissa Marie Glenn, as well as her cherished grandchildren, Chantel Glenn-Kendrick and Dante Forde. Brothers George Kebe, Philip Kebe, Ronald Kebe, Michael Kebe, Cecil Kebe, Sisters Maguerite Gartrey, Alice Kebe, Elizabeth Corbin. Cousin’s Esme West, Terrance Agostini, and Brenda Durty. Aunt to many nieces and nephews. She shared an unbreakable bond with her extended family, ensuring that love and connection remained strong across generations.
Her legacy of strength, creativity, and passion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Rose Marie Smith was a force of nature—unforgettable, fearless, and truly one of a kind.
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A Memorial Service is to be held from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM with a Tributes of a Lifetime and Religious service at 1:00 PM at Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care, located at 1600 N. University Drive, Pembroke Pines, FL 33024.
For those unable to attend, we will be live-streaming the service on Sunday, February 16th, 2025, at 1:00 PM and invite you to attend virtually using the following link on the Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care Facebook page at: BOYD-PANCIERA FAMILY FUNERAL CARE LIVESTREAM. **Livestreaming will appear approximately 5 minutes before the start of the service.
Boyd-Panciera University Drive Chapel
Boyd-Panciera University Drive Chapel
© 2025 Boyd Panciera. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Cheryl
February 12, 2025, 7:14 pm
The Kendrick family sends our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Rose Marie Smith. She was a Beautiful spirit. Our family feels blessed to have the privilege to know her.
Sincerely,
Charlie Kendrick & Family.
Ron and Marpassa Willis & Family. Chantel’s cousins from Rome, Georgia
February 12, 2025, 11:23 pm
What a beautiful history into the inner character of a beautiful person. Her story and her legacy of strength, creativity, and passion is heartfelt. Our thoughts and prayers are with her love ones. Praise God that she has comforted them all with her own words “I am in my Father’s hands, and whatever His will is, I will be with God.” What a Blessing!
Hazel & Cecil Kebe
February 13, 2025, 1:29 am
My sister Rose was a person that always encourage me to do things and to challenge myself don’t just settle. Watching one of my big sisters rose she was always colorful. When I grew up and was able to understand my sister better I could see how she would teach her school kids not just a normal lesson plan but a life plan. She would tell me how they enjoyed her lessons and sometimes I wish I had a teacher like that. We always talked on the phone and told each other’s life experiences and she would always encourage me to do more. It was always fun talking to him and hearing her laugh. Sometimes we be up for hours telling each other’s jokes laughing to the point where we start to cry time will just fly by. I will miss those days. When I told her I started doing art she started to Push Me Harder. She gave me inspiration for some of the pieces I created I surely will miss telling her of my stories and Adventures. I can only say in closing roses and sister that I truly missed. We lost a great person that cared for others and only want the best for each other so I close to say I will miss you Rose.
Mattie Turner
February 13, 2025, 3:09 pm
Clarrisa I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. I know it’s hard. I didn’t know her, but I feel your pain. I’ve been there. Remember that God is a good God and he will take you through this trouble time. Don’t be afraid to grieve, but looking at her She seems worthy of grieving she was a beautiful lady. I see you all in her. I’m available for you. I pray for your strength.
Angela Watson
February 13, 2025, 5:02 pm
Angela Watson,Nurses Aide. She was a great encourager. Love ❤️ to have fun. We had a lot of fun. I know how to use the sewing machine because of her. Greatest inspiration. Rest in peace. Heaven welcomes you.
Ellisoon and Kattie Kendrick
February 13, 2025, 10:54 pm
Ellison and Kattie Kendrick
Sending condolences, love and prayers.. your Faith and God’s Grace will sustain you.
Chantel’s Uncle and Aunt
Mahalia Hines
February 14, 2025, 3:49 pm
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Your mother
is always with you. She’s the whisper of the leaves as you walk down the street, she’s the smell of certain foods you remember, flowers you pick, the fragrance of life itself.
She’s the cool hand on your brow when you’re not feeling well, she’s your breath in the air on a cold winter’s day. She is the sound of the rain that lulls you to sleep, the colors of a rainbow, she is Christmas morning. Your mother lives inside your laughter. She’s the place you came from, your first home, and she’s the map you follow with every step you take. She’s your first love, your first friend, even your first enemy, but nothing on earth can separate you. Not time, not space…
not even death.
Elizabeth Corbin
February 15, 2025, 8:29 am
IN LOVING ❤️ MEMORY OF MY SISTER! If roses grow in heaven LORD please pick a bunch for her, and place them in my sister’s arms and tell her they’re from me. Tell her I love and miss her, and when she turns to smile place a kiss upon her cheek and hold her awhile, Because remembering you is easy, I do it every day , but there’s an ache within my heart that will never go away 💔. My ROSE 🌹 REST IN POWER. LOVE YOU ALWAYS YOUR SISTER EJ CORBIN ❤️
Debbie Johnson
February 15, 2025, 3:57 pm
Let me take this opportunity to express my deepest condolences to the family.
Ms. Smith I’m saddened to know you are gone. I was shocked when I heard of your passing. A beautiful rose is no more.
Over the year that I was your Nurse it was indeed a pleasure serving you. You’re always teaching me how to play new games which I share with my family and friends . Your kindness and thoughtfulness was evident with the things you do.
Thank God my daughter and I visited and prayed with you on Sunday afternoon, not knowing that Monday morning you would be gone from our sight. I love you and surely miss you Ms. Smith.
You fought a great fight and now it’s time to rest in perpetual peace. Gone but not forgotten.
Christopher Gaulteau
February 15, 2025, 9:04 pm
I have known Rose for over 2 decades Her Daughter Clarissa and I are very good friends, it’s with great sadness that I have to see her passing my condolences goes out to her family, She was a wonderful person.
Jacqueline E Henderson
February 16, 2025, 3:55 am
Chantel, You have my deepest sympathy in the loss of your grandmother. My heart goes out to you and your family. Jackie Henderson & Family
Alice Kebe Hinson
February 16, 2025, 4:57 am
From my earliest age of 15, Rose was my ally, my confidant and my guide…
Rose had an incredible strength, a resilience that carried her through life’s challenges with Grace. Rose faced hardship with a brave face, always managing to find a silver lining in the darkest of clouds. Rose’s ability to remain optimistic to find joy in every situation was truly admirable. Rose’s love of family was boundless. Rose was a nurturing figure, always there to support, give advice, a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on. Rose’s wisdom and guidance has been part of my life; shaping who I am today. Rose was more than a SISTER. Rose was an inspirational role model with a motherly instinct.
Rose had a remarkable zeel for life. She pursued her interest and passions with dedication. Rose had an eye of fashion, which gave her the nickname “Glamour Girl” from Má.
Rose as I say goodbye for now, I am filled with immense gratitude for the memories we shared for the love you gave so freely, and the impact you made in my life. Your life will continuously vibrate from everyone’s lips. Your memories will be a treasure that I will hold close forever… Love U Sis!
Horace & Celia Hudson
February 16, 2025, 5:10 am
We offer our heartfelt prayers and deepest sympathy.
Horace & Celia Hudson and family
Sharisse
February 16, 2025, 4:50 pm
Haven’t been myself since I heard the news thinking of my mom losing not just her sister but her best friend and my cousins losing their mom I try not to get emotional but my heart aches. My aunt has left a lasting imprint on my soul her love for not just me but for my daughter is unmatched. You never know how deep your genes run until you grow up Aunt Rose and I would talk and text each other for hours at times about sewing, fashion (I believe this is where my daughter gets her fashion sense) and art she enjoyed hearing me talk about something I’m creating for the kids in my class as well as giving her ideas on something I’m sewing for myself. She didn’t know how much she helped me in times where I was struggling with health just watching her always push through whatever came her way is what beamed so bright. I will cherish the Memories of our last visit hearing her laugh and her trying to get Marcus, Dom and I to eat (she asked us about 5 different times) and drink wine (that we had).
I Love You Aunt Rose and thank you for being your true Authentic Self Always. Sprinkle the land with your Razzle Dazzle from Heaven
We gained an Amazing Angel
With Everlasting Love, Grace & Peace
Sharisse & Dominique Hinson
Linda Walters
February 16, 2025, 5:21 pm
In honor of Clarissa’s Mom: May you rest in peace . You were my niece’s best friend for many years and for that I salute you.
Catch up to Gail when you can. Love, Linda Walters
Mary
February 16, 2025, 6:23 pm
I had the honor to be a part of Ms. Rose Marie Smith as her C. N. A it was a honor to have been in the presence of a woman so strong, full of life, I called her my SuoerWoman just because she overcame so much in life . She was an inspiration to me in many ways, she taught me so much …..She will truly be missed and will always have a special place in my heart. Forever and always