Rosalie Thornberry Berkshire

Rosalie Thornberry Berkshire January 14, 1926 - June 15, 2024, was born in Detroit to Lillian Rose (Cook) and Roy Thornberry and raised by her aunt Mary Eva (Thornberry) and uncle Martin Mattingly, who all preceded her in death.  Rosalie experienced many changes in her ninety-eight years and enjoyed reminiscing about her life. She trained as a Cadet Nurse at Nazareth College and Saint Joseph Infirmary In Louisville during World War II where she graduated as a Registered Nurse. 

Rosalie and her late husband Harry Green Berkshire of fifty-nine years, made Maceo their home.  She was a tireless leader and volunteer, serving as PTA and Homemakers president, Maceo Concerned Citizens member, Girl Scout and 4-H leader, church leader, and Red Cross instructor.  She helped design and build the family home. 

In addition to her career as an RN, she applied her skills to provide comfort to her friends and neighbors.She was a member of Owensboro Christian Church.  Rosalie could captivate and impress with her skills as a seamstress, cake decorator, and enjoyed gardening, canning, and creating beautiful flower arrangements.  She promoted education, was an advocate for women, and for individuals with special needs.

Rosalie was preceded in death by her sisters, Ruth Burkholder and Martine Millay, along with her brother, Douglas Johnson.She is survived by daughters Bonita Echstenkamper, husband, William of Delray Beach, FL, Janice Hurst, husband Carl, of Louisville, Barbara Berkshire, Owensboro, and Annette Berkshire, Owensboro; granddaughters Andrea Kwonkamper, husband David; great-granddaughters Aurelia and Zola, San Francisco, CA., and Lauren Davidson, husband, Anthony and great-granddaughters Penelope and Samantha, St. Louis, MO.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 26, from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory.  A private family memorial is planned for a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to the Opportunity Center of Owensboro, 3560 New Hartford Road, Owensboro KY 42303.

Memories and condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.glenncares.com