Our mother was the heart of our family—a woman whose love, strength, and sacrifices shaped generations. She was a proud and devoted mother who made it her life’s mission to ensure that her children never went without. Whether it was food on the table, a roof over our heads, guidance, or unconditional love, she always found a way to provide.
With hope, determination, and an open heart, Rosie left Mississippi and made her way to Nebraska. This journey was never just for herself. She opened her home to family members, welcoming relatives and their children so they too could experience opportunity, stability, and a fresh start. Her home was often full, but her heart was even fuller.
Rosie worked as a cook at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln for over 40 years, where she nourished generations of students not only with her meals, but with her kindness, dedication, and familiar smile. Through her daily actions, she taught us the true meaning of family, resilience, and selflessness. Her sacrifices were quiet yet profound, and her love was steady and unwavering. To know her was to feel deeply cared for and protected.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Mack and Bessie Thompson; her brothers, Andrew Thompson and Clarence Thompson; her sister, Gladys Amerson; her daughters, Betty Thompson and Mary Woullard; her grandson, Darrel Thompson; and her son-in-law, Anthony Wilson.
Rosie leaves to cherish her memory her siblings, Emma Miles, Josephine Thompson, and Tariq Haleem (Deb); her children, Patricia Wilson, James Allen Hicks (Amanda), Cathy Long, Deborah Hicks, Michael Hicks (Cindy), Jenice Hicks, Vangie Haynes (Marcus), Kevin Hicks, and Roland Madlock; 22 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.
Our mother leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and service that lives on through her children, grandchildren, and all those whose lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 23rd, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 3301 N. 56th Street, Lincoln, NE 68504.
Visitation will take place on Thursday, January 22nd, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Metcalf Chapel, 245 N. 27th Street, Lincoln, NE 68503.
In place of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Mt. Zion Baptist Church.