Rose Green

Rosabelle “Rose” Singleton, affectionately known as “Bunchie,” was born on September 14, 1933 on Wadmalaw Island in Charleston County, South Carolina, to the late Mabel Brown Singleton Ruffins and the late John Singleton. She was the fourth child of six children. Rose received her initial education in the Charleston Public School system. After losing her father at the tender age of 5, she lived with her grandmother Sylvia, before joining her mother and sister in Brooklyn, New York, where she continued her education at age 10. After graduating from Eastern District High School, Rose met and subsequently married the late John Green on December 23, 1951. From this union, six children were born. After eighteen years of being a devoted housewife, Rose furthered her education at City College and The College of New Rochelle.

Rose worked as a paraprofessional for the New York City Board of Education. She took great pride in facilitating opportunities for children with special needs. Rose was known for her compassion and was no stranger to helping those in need. Rose was a woman who spoke her mind, she empowered herself and others to stand up for themselves. Rose traveled often with her best friend, the late Audrey Neal. One of her most memorable trips was her journey to Ghana, West Africa. On September 14, 1995, Rose retired from the Board of Education.

Rose began her spiritual journey at Bethlehem African Methodist Episcopal Church in Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina. On January29, 1964, Rose was baptized at Zion Shiloh Baptist Church (Brooklyn, New York) under the tutelage of the late Pastor J.G. Washington.In 1969, Rose and her family marched with her church members to the newly formed Greater Zion Shiloh Baptist Church (Brooklyn,NY), where she became one of the esteemed chartered members. Here, Rose continued her lifelong journey of serving the Lord, as a fierce warrior for Christ. Under the current Pastor, Reverend G.T.M. Jones, she held many positions.

Rose served as President of both the Missionary and Floral Club, and as Chairperson of the Building Fund. In addition, she spearheaded countless Anniversary and Women’s Day celebrations. She was also a proud lifelong member of Church Women United.Yes, she wore many hats both fashionably and spiritually. Rose was the epitome of a woman that took pride in her position and in her appearance.

After 64 blissful years of marriage and upon the death of her husband, Rose spent time living alone, before joining her daughter Janice in Long Island, NY. She adjusted to her new life in Long Island, faithfully attending the Wyandanch Senior Citizen Center and joining In The Word Ministries (West Babylon, NY) under the leadership of Pastor Thomas F. Tolliver. Later, Rose was bestowed the honor of“Mother of the Church”.

Rose leaves to mourn her memory; Rosemarie Perkins (Ernest) of North Carolina, Barbara Thorpe (Robin) of New Jersey, Joan Muhammad (Shareef) of New York, Althea Waters (Larry) of Delaware, and Janice Green-Parks (Sean) of New York; her siblings Pearl Shealey of North Carolina, John Singleton (Alice) of Florida, Joseph Singleton of New York; 15 Grandchildren, 10 Great Grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Preceding her in death: her husband John, her son John Jr. “Jay”, and her sister Henrietta King.

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