Rosemary McClister

Rosemary McClister, 79, of Alloway, NJ passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on May 26, 2026.

Born in Wildwood, NJ, Rosemary carried with her a lifelong love of stories, learning, and simple joys. She spent many dedicated years working for Wawa, where she served as an assistant manager and became known for her hard work, kindness, and steady presence. To coworkers and customers alike, she was someone who could always be counted on for a helping hand and a familiar smile.

At home, Rosemary found happiness in the things she loved most. An avid reader, she collected over a thousand books over her lifetime — and every single one had been read, many more than once. Her shelves reflected her curiosity, imagination, and appreciation for stories of every kind. She could often be found with a book nearby, a puzzle spread across the table, or a favorite game ready to play.

Rosemary also had a deep passion for ancestry and genealogy, spending countless hours with her brother, Walter, researching family history and uncovering connections that helped preserve treasured memories for future generations. She loved sharing stories about where the family came from and took pride in keeping those histories alive. Rosemary’s bond with Walter extended beyond ancestry and genealogy. At just 14 years old, Rosemary became Walter’s godmother, creating a spiritual connection between them through God’s eyes.

When she wasn’t reading or researching, she enjoyed relaxing with classic TV shows she had watched many times before, finding comfort and joy in familiar characters and stories that never grew old.

Rosemary will be remembered for her quiet intelligence, her warm heart, her wit, and her ability to find joy in life’s simple pleasures. She leaves behind a family who will deeply miss her wisdom, laughter, and love.

She is survived by her devoted children; Leslie “Lee” Taylor (Pat), Desiree Holland (John), Catherine Taylor (John) and JoAnn Capra (Nicholas); her 15 cherished grandchildren and step-grandchildren, Alesa, Joseph, Lauren, Christopher, Michael, Brittany, Samantha, John, William, Amber, Viviana, Laura, Rosemarie, Frank and Noah; dear siblings, Joseph W. McClister, Jr. (Ann), Kathleen D. Reed, David M. McClister (Janice) and Walter McClister; and many great-grandchildren, extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Rosemary was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph McClister, Sr. and Theresa (nee Alexander), and her son, Reginald “Mike” Taylor.

Graveside Services will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026 at 2:30 PM in the New Saint Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to:

National Kidney Foundation