Rosemarie Jones Higgins Murphree

Rosemarie Jones Higgins Murphree, a beloved matriarch of unwavering faith and boundless love, peacefully passed away at the age of 91 on Saturday, July 27, 2024, surrounded by her family at home in Gulfport, MS.

Born on May 17, 1933, the second child to Wiley Brigham Jones “Bapa” and Marie Minnie Massey “Mimi”, Rose’s life was a testament to her deep Christian faith and devotion to her family. She was a pillar of strength and kindness, touching the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Rose’s unwavering belief in God was evident in every aspect of her life, from her warm smile to her compassionate deeds. Rose graduated from Central High School in Jackson, MS and Mississippi College, where she studied Bible and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education. Although she spent most of her working life as an administrative assistant for various organizations and a tax preparer, she was able teach her last several years as a substitute teacher in the Gulfport area.

As a mother, Rose was the heart and soul of her family. She dedicated her life to nurturing and supporting her children, instilling in them the values of love, faith, and perseverance. She was grateful for God answering her prayers for the birth of Sammy Jo while she had opened her heart to raise Martha, Guy, and Bert as her own. Later she added Pat, Janet, Robert, Frank, Rosie, and Charles to her brood – a testament to her joyous spirit and love for life.

Rose’s love for adventure and zest for life were evident in her many travels and hobbies in reading and collecting interesting items. She cherished moments in the various church choirs and found solace reading her Bible daily, finding strength in her faith. Rose had a passion for music, often humming hymns as she went about her day, and enjoyed attending church services where her voice uplifted the congregation in song. Her last church family was at New Hope Baptist Church in Gulfport, where she was a 4th grade Sunday School teacher.

Rose leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and compassion that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She is survived by her brother, Harold “Harry” Graves Jones (Robbie). Her big brother, W.B. Jones (Frances); her younger brother, Robert “Bobby” Ingram Jones; and her sisters, Margaret “Ann” Hutchinson (Redmond) and Ruby “Kathleen” Jones Larsen (Dennis), are now in Heaven waiting for her along with their mother and father.

Rose also leaves behind her granddaughter, Samantha, and her great-granddaughter, Charlie as well as her son, Samuel “Sammy Jo” Jones Higgins; and step-children, Martha Jean Higgins McCann, Patricia “Pat” Ann Murphree Curtis (Bill), Janet Murphree Lenoir, Robert W. Murphree,  Frank H. Murphree (Angeline) and her daughter Rosemarie "Rosie" Murphree McMillon. Her step-sons, Guy Higgins, John “Bert” Burton III Higgins, and Charles Walter Murphree have preceded her in death. Her first husband, John Higgins and her second husband, Roy C. Murphree also preceded her in death. Rose’s legacy includes many step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who are scattered across the nation.

Many came together to celebrate Rose’s 90th birthday in 2023. She was so appreciative of that event. Along with her cherished family there are a host of friends and extended family who will deeply miss her presence.

Rose’s family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of St. Joseph Hospice for their compassionate care during her final days. Her legacy of love and faith will forever remain in our hearts.

A funeral service will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport. Friends may visit from 6:00 p.m. until service time. Interment will be at Lakewood Memorial Park in Jackson, MS.

“Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4