Rose Marie Neighbors

Rose Marie Neighbors, 81, of Roanoke, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 21, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Carrie L. Barlow and Ralph L. Doyle; her sister, Barbara Baxter; her brother, Melvin L. Doyle; and her beloved grandchildren, Dakoda Kirk, Heather Norville, and Jesse Jones.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, James Ray Neighbors; her children, Robert Jones (Robyn), Angie Kirk (Roger), Sara Lynne Norville (Tim), and Brandy Grissom; her brothers, Donald L. Doyle, Randal Doyle, and Ralph Doyle; and an abundance of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who knew and loved her best as "Granny Rose" or "Tunie."

Rose dedicated many years of service to her community. She worked in the cafeterias at Cave Spring High School, Cave Spring Junior High School, and Penn Forest Elementary School before beginning a career as a cook at the VA Hospital, where she retired after years of faithful service. Even in retirement, Rose remained active, working part-time at Kroger, The Country Way Store, and The Country Store on Starkey Road, where she enjoyed visiting with customers and her friends.

Rose found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved baking and was especially known for her famous preacher cookies and chocolate chip pecan pies. She enjoyed gardening and took great pride in her flowers, particularly her beautiful roses. She delighted in watching hummingbirds, adored her chihuahuas, and cherished every opportunity to spend time at the beach, one of her favorite places.

Above all else, Rose loved her family. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, hard work, and generosity that will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.

All arrangements are private at this time. A family celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Rose's honor to Angels of Assisi or Mountain View Humane Society.

Though deeply missed, Rose's love, spirit, and memory will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com.