Rosa Lee Smith Reed

Rosa Lee Smith Reed, 95, beloved family matriarch’s life was a beautiful testament to faith, perseverance, creativity, and unconditional love. Though she has departed this earthly life, her legacy will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Rosa transitioned from this life on Monday, October 5, 2026, in Chesterfield, Virginia. A resident of Midlothian, Virginia, she resided with her daughter, Karen Reed. Born in Highland County, Virginia, Rosa was a member of Pleasant View AME Church and attended various churches in Staunton and Chesterfield. She received her education in the Staunton Public Schools. In August 2000, she received a Biblical Certification of Achievement from Dr. Frederick K. C. Price Crenshaw Christian Center Institute.

Rosa fondly recalled the early years of her career, when she provided compassionate care for elderly ladies at the Betty Bickle Home. She was proud to have been selected as one of the first African American supervisors at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel. She later worked at Fiberspun/Unifi until her retirement in 1990.

Devoted to her family and known as a ‘loyal and trusted friend’, Rosa touched many lives with her kindness, wisdom, and love. A country girl at heart, she held a special place in her heart for Highland County, which always remained close to her. She had a deep love for plants, flowers, and gardening, and her beautiful flower displays earned community awards. Her culinary talents were equally celebrated, with her award-winning recipes featured in the Staunton News Leader and enjoyed by family and friends for years to come.

A lifelong learner with a creative and determined spirit, Rosa taught herself to type and use computers. She also authored several inspirational books reflecting her love of family, faith, food, guidance, and the importance of love. Through her many talents and accomplishments, she left a lasting legacy of inspiration and encouragement.

Rosa was preceded in death by her parents, Harrison and Rachel Smith; her sons, George Thomas Reed, Jr., and Kenneth Lee Reed; and her siblings, James Garfield Smith of New Jersey, Blanche Mae Velvin of Staunton, Alvin Arthur Smith of Staunton, and Melvin Wardell Smith of Baltimore, Maryland.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved daughter, Karen Reed of Midlothian, Virginia; her grandchildren, Latongia of Staunton, Virginia, Mario of Adelphia, Arkansas, and Ebony and Ariana of Rockford, Illinois; along with her six great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a host of extended family members and dear friends.

She will be remembered always for her devotion to family, her generous spirit, her many gifts, and the love she so freely shared.

A memorial service will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Coffman Funeral Home & Crematory in Staunton. Family visitation will begin at 11:30 a.m. Interment will be at Fairview Cemetery in Staunton.

Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory, 230 Frontier Drive, Staunton is in charge of her arrangements.