Rosetta Johnson

Rosetta Pearl (Poole) Johnson, age 83 of Madison was called home on Sunday July 31st 2022 with her son Tony and loving family members by her side.

Rosetta was born on February 23, 1939 in Massillon, Ohio, to the late LeRoy Poole and Sadie (Bostick) Poole. Rosetta “Rose” as she was lovingly called moved to Madison, WI at age 11, traveling by train, leaving behind everything she knew and loved.  From that time on, anything Rose acquired was meticulously cared for and cherished.

Rose attended Marquette Middle School, she maintained an A average and held high honors all during her high school career at Madison East High School. In her spare time, she taught herself to draw and became a gifted artist.

Rose had incredible life experiences,  in 1956 she had her only son Anthony, the two shared a strong bond all her life.  1962 she set sail to Europe on The Queen Elizabeth and in 1964 she lived in Cape Cod, a place she adored. In 1972 Rose moved her son back to Madison, armed with confidence and determination she became the first Black Art Director at WKOW Channel 27 News, where she stayed for 32 years until 2005.

Rose lived her life on her terms, loved her family with all that she was and left an indelible mark on each of us. Her beauty, strength, humor, wisdom and kindness will live on.

Rose was preceded in death by her Parents; LeRoy and Sadie (Bostick) Poole, Grandparents; Hugh and Rose (Rudd) Bostick, Brothers; Elvis and LeRoy Poole; Sister & Brother in-law Cynthia (Poole) Merritt Norvell, and many cherished family members and friends.

She leaves memories to be treasured by her devoted son, Anthony Johnson; Sisters; Hazel Poole, Johnetta (Douglas) Simmons and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews who were dear to her heart; adopted family, friends and many souls she touched along her way.

Rose’s Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2022, 11am at Forest Hill Cemetery,  1 Speedway Road, Madison, WI 53705.

Reception to follow; The Lodge at Walnut Grove, 4200 University Ave. Madison, WI  53705