Rupert Rose
Rupert Rose, 87, of Priory, St. Ann, Jamaica, surrounded by family, died on Sunday, February 6, 2022. Born on February 20,1934, in Priory, St. Ann. Rupert was the loving son of Princess and Stanley Rose, both of Priory. Rupert, affectionately known as “Uncle Birdie”, was a talented and principled man, dedicated to his family and possessing strong values. In June 1960, Rupert met the love of his life, Beverley Rose, whom he married in June 1961, and to whom he remained a devoted husband of 60 years, until his death.
Rupert was an industrious and hardworking man who also enjoyed life. His work and career included serving as manager of Volvo United Football Club of Priory, St. Ann, for over 3 years; as a Driver for Richmond Sugar Estate in Llandovery; and later, he worked for Reynolds Jamaica Mine in Claremont, St. Ann in the late 1950's. Rupert’s early experience led him to a career in Tourism, which started with his work with JUTA Tours. During this time, he served as a JUTA Tour Operator, providing high quality tours to tourists from 1962, until retirement.
Rupert’s work in the Tourist Industry included his time with Shaw Park Hotel and Jamaica Hilton Hotel, now known as Jewel's Dunn's River. He also worked with the Single world Company, on the Carnival Cruise ship. Rupert enjoyed traveling, socializing with his friends, fishing, cricket, football, tennis, and bird-hunting, which earned him the name “Birdie” for his love of shooting birds. His love for entertaining led him to host many house parties for friends and family. He was known for his famous signature “Birdie Punch” which he served with much love and pride to his guests.
Rupert was a devoted family man, who was consistently available for his children through good times and bad. He enjoyed spending quality time with his children, taking them along with their friends to the beach and football games. He was actively engaged in each of their lives, interests, hopes, and dreams. He acted with dignity and class. He was a disciplinarian, provider, and protector, a pillar of strength, support, and joy. As a parent, he directed his efforts at providing his children with the tools to earn a living, live a good life and improve themselves. Most importantly, Rupert showed unconditional love to his wife and children.
Rupert was a lifelong member of St. Ann Parish Church. He loved Jesus Christ and believed loving Him meant loving people. This truth took root first in his own home as he nurtured his children, with whom he made sure were baptized and played an active role in the church. Rupert truly lived a life to serve others. His commitment to serve expanded beyond his household walls to include giving to less fortunate people. Rupert’s legacy will be carried forward by his nine children, twenty-three grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.
Rupert is survived by his loving wife, Beverly Rose, of St. Ann, Jamaica, and his sister, Evelyn Rose of England. He is predeceased by his parents, Princess and Stanley Rose; his bothers Clinton Rose, Jack Rose, and Roy Rose.
Rupert will be forever missed by his children: Jennifer Rose of Queens, New York; Beverly Rose of Lime Hall, St. Ann; Ann Marie Rose of Toronto, Canada; Ian Rose and spouse Ione Rose of Miami, Florida; Courtney Rose of Irvington, New Jersey; Dave Rose of Priory, St. Ann; Karen Blake and spouse Vergel Blake of Boston, Massachusetts; Michelle Harrow and spouse Jason Harrow of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; and Renea Rose of Irvington, New Jersey. In addition, he is survived by many relatives and friends.