Former Arizona resident Rosemary Jackson Wheelwright, 69, died May 15th, 2021, at her care facility in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Rosemary was born April 17, 1952, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to David Irvin and Lucile Musser Jackson. Her family included her 7 siblings: David Musser Jackson-deceased (Diana), J. Craig Jackson-deceased (Gretchen), Wendy Augason (Gordon-deceased), Samuel Joseph Jackson (Janis), Holly Alder, Jane Howell (James), and Jonathan. She is survived by her two wonderful sons – Max David and Samuel Joseph Wheelwright. She married Tom Wheelwright in August 1979, spending 35 years together.
She adored rabbits, especially her bunny Benny, who fiercely defended her from anyone who would steal her attention. She loved Vera Wang tote bags, surfing the web, and her beloved Steinway Grand Piano. She was a devout fan of the West Wing TV series. Rosemary possessed the unique quality grapheme-color synesthesia, seeing letters and words in color.
Rosemary graduated from the University of Utah in 1974 with a Bachelor’s in music education. She went on to finish her Master’s degree from Arizona State University in 1992. She made an art of teaching music and affected the lives of many as a musical educator. Her career as an elementary school music teacher included tenures in Mesa, Round Rock Texas, the Tempe-Kyrene School District, and Salt Lake City-Granite School District. Her endless supply of post-it notes kept her from forgetting things and assisted her in making lesson plans. She loved her job and loved her family.
Her sharp wit and unique brand of humor will never be forgotten. Even near death, she was the life of the party.
The funeral service will be held on Friday, May 21st, 11:00 AM, at Larkin Mortuary, 260 East South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT, with a viewing prior to the service from 9:30-10:45 AM. Interment will be at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park in Salt Lake.
The funeral may be viewed at https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/m24ujpRWFvPAcZPElTbReVQ9dB8bbP1kiCjyyLNisY_MhvCtEdZRp7Bj_b_v56eo.IMnhqlFKIgdbVbYA?startTime=1621615086000 or clicking the “Watch Services” button at the top of this page.
Oh I am so sorry! I just found out. How I loved her. Biggest hugs to Max and Sam. Love you.
I have so many sweet memories of Rosie--growing up, orchestra at East High School, and in a shared family as adults. She could always make me laugh. Whenever I see a bunny rabbit, I will think of her. Sending love to all who mourn her passing. /Catherine Wheelwright Ockey, Helena MT
We were so sorry to hear of Rosie's passing. Her presence on earth will be greatly missed. I can still hear her sweet voice and special way she would sigh. She was intelligent, talented, a wonderful musician and teacher, and so fun. I cherished her frankness and honesty. I pray for Heavenly Father to watch over all of her family and give them strength now and going forward.
Rest In Peace and love ,Rosie!💗
Max and Sam, how I loved your mother, she and I were great friends, I admired her talents, her wit, and all that she stood for, her love for her children, her testimony of the gospel and eternal families.
May your hearts and minds be always filled with memories of her life and feel her enduring love.
My deepest sympathy.
Sister Solano
Thank you Sam and Max for sharing the wonderful memories and thoughts about your mom during the service. I am reminded of laughing together with her during summer visits. Sending love from our family to you.
Sending my deepest love and holding space in my heart for Rosemary's family, especially for her children, Max and Sam.
I express my heartfelt sympathy. Rosie was a beloved friend. I shall miss her wit and wisdom.
Sincerely
Annie Wheeler
Our heartfelt condolences to all of Rosemary's family. We are grateful to have known Rosemary these past 25 years. She was a good and faithful friend to our family. We loved her for her compassionate heart and her tremendous sense of humor. She told us several times that she knew she was okay because her Heavenly Father loved her for who she was. Her faith never wavered. She was lovable and generous and kind. We will miss her.
My sweet friend, my heart is broken! I looked forward to our Friday visits. I would schedule you last on Friday, so we could have unlimited time talk about our weekend plans over a frosty or an afternoon treat. You were definitely too kind for this world. Now you’re free to order as much stuff as you want off the internet & have all of the pet bunnies, you longed for. You are one of those patients that I will always cherish & remember. 🐰🐇🐰🐇 Love you my, sweet Rosemary.
Chantell Driver
I knew Rosemary at Uinta Elementary School and East High School. She was one of the sweetest people I have ever known. Shy and quiet but with a smile that let you know you were appreciated by her.
How we love our sister, Rosie. You are so fun to know and so talented. We have loved the past few years having you closer to us, especially the last few months of helping you. We will miss you at our sibling lunches. Your sons will always have a special place in our hearts. Thank you for all the joy you have shared with so many of us over the years.
Rosemary: You were a bright star in my life, I am so glad I met you. I hope you are having a glorious time in Heaven! I hope to see you again someday and share good memories with you.