Rosellen Fry, 64, of Eddyville, passed away Thursday evening, January 12, 2023, at her home surrounded by her family.
Rosellen Arlene Fry, daughter of Thomas Oliver Rutherford and Nina Ellen (Roundtree), was born on September 10, 1958, in King City, California. When Rosy was three months old, the family moved to What Cheer, Iowa. She attended Tri-County High School and began her career at Diamatic Manufacturing, currently Montezuma Manufacturing, in Montezuma. Rosy married the love of her life, Melvin LeRoy Fry, on September 30, 1978, at Hilltop Chapel in What Cheer. Their only child, a beautiful daughter Jennifer, a true miracle, was born on January 5, 1981. Rosy and Melvin began their life together in What Cheer, where she worked at the local Casey’s store for several years. The family lived in the Oskaloosa area, then, for four years, they lived in Cabool, Missouri. After that, they settled in the Eddyville area. Rosy’s primary employment was as a Security Guard for 22 years; 18 of those years were at Wacker Chemical Corporation in Eddyville. She retired in 2020 due to health concerns.
Rosy found her joy in being surrounded by her family and friends. Her daughter, Jennifer, was her best friend and a constant source of joy. They had a beautiful relationship and gathered countless memories. It was a blessing for Rosy to witness her daughter become a mother and for Rosy to become a grandmother. Once the grandchildren arrived, they became her greatest prized gifts. Rosy’s most remarkable quality was her continual ability to offer unending love, comfort, and support to everyone she encountered. She shared her talent with her loved ones by crocheting and cross-stitching countless treasures. Rosy was an animal lover and cherished her pets, especially her precious dogs.
Rosy’s family includes her husband of 44 years, Melvin Fry; her beloved daughter Jennifer Marlay of Ottumwa; two grandchildren: Eli and Katelyn Fisher of Ottumwa; her sister Jenny (Kelly) McDowell of Eddyville; and her beloved nieces and nephews.
Rosy was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Calvin Rutherford, and two sisters: Leah Broyles and Linda Jones-McKee.
As per her wish, Rosy’s body has been cremated, and there will be a Celebration of Life ceremony with burial at Mount Pisgah Cemetery in Cabool, Missouri, at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Care Initiatives Hospice or Hope Lodge in Iowa City.
