Maria Rosario Aprile

Maria Rosario Aprile (née Laviana Rodriguez), aged 89, lovingly known to many as Rose, was a devoted mother, grandmother, companion, and friend whose warmth, generosity, and love touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Born on May 11, 1937, in Gijón, Spain, Rose grew up in the beautiful region of Asturias, a place that would always hold a special place in her heart.

At the age of 24, she moved to England, beginning a new chapter in her life. She married Peter Aprile, and together they raised two daughters, Karen and Lorraine. Although their marriage ended after 23 years, Rose and Peter remained friends, and she maintained a warm relationship with Peter and his wife, Kaye.

Following her divorce, Rose shared 30 wonderful years with her devoted companion, Anibal, who brought great love and happiness into her life. His passing was a profound loss, but her family takes comfort in the thought that they are now reunited.

Rose was a hardworking and dedicated nurse, balancing her career with raising her young daughters. She worked nights when they were small and later worked during the day when they attended school. She was a strong, loving, and nurturing mother whose generosity knew no bounds. She would truly give the shirt off her back to help those she loved.

Some of the family’s most treasured memories are of childhood summers spent on the beaches of Spain, surrounded by cousins, with Rose and her beloved mother, affectionately known as Tata.

After Anibal passed away, Rose returned to the United Kingdom from Spain and lived with her daughter, Karen, and her son-in-law, Chris, for six years. Karen lovingly cared for her throughout those years, sharing a home and many precious moments together. Rose and Karen later moved to Florida so that the whole family could be together. Karen made her home close by with her beloved dog Bella. Her husband, Chris, visited regularly while awaiting the opportunity to join her permanently in Florida. Rose lived with Lorraine and Michael in Viera. Rose spent time at both daughters’ homes, and Karen and Lorraine shared equally in the privilege of loving and caring for their mum during her final years.

Rose especially loved her Sunday bingo afternoons at Sonata East at Viera, where Lorraine worked as a hairstylist. She looked forward to her Sunday church outings with her dear friend and neighbor Susan, whose kindness, companionship, and loving care meant so much to her.

She adored the family’s dogs and happily took them for walks while Lorraine and Michael were at work. She loved spending sunny afternoons by the pool, visiting the beach, and enjoying the Florida sunshine.

One of Rose’s greatest pleasures was sitting outside on the patio listening to her favorite music. She adored the Gipsy Kings, Julio Iglesias, Tom Jones, and Isabel Pantoja, and would happily ask Alexa to play her favorite songs—although she always affectionately called her “Alexia darling!” It was one of those little expressions that was so wonderfully Rose.

And, of course, Rose loved her food! From traditional Spanish paella to English fish and chips, and even her beloved Kentucky Fried Chicken, she enjoyed the familiar comforts and little treats that made life special. She also loved playing the lottery, always hoping that one day her lucky numbers might finally come in.

Rose is lovingly remembered by her two daughters, Karen Paige and her husband Chris, and Lorraine Fleri and her husband Michael; her cherished granddaughter, Charlie Rose Miller, and Charlie’s husband Ben Miller; her nephew Stephen; and Peter and Kaye, who remained dear friends and a cherished part of her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved companion, Anibal, and her brother, Pepe.

Rose leaves behind a lifetime of beautiful memories, a family who adored her, and a legacy of strength, kindness, generosity, and unconditional love.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations made in her honor to the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Animal Care Center.

Though she will be deeply missed, the love she gave so freely will remain in our hearts forever.

Forever our Mum, our Rose, and our guiding light.