Linda W. Rose

Linda Lee Watkins Rose, 83, of Columbia, and formerly of Bethune, South Carolina, entered her Heavenly home on Thursday, July 2, 2026.

Born on September 6, 1942, in Camden, South Carolina, Linda was the beloved daughter of George and Thelma Cassady Watkins of Bethune.

A lifelong learner and passionate educator, Linda graduated from Bethune High School before earning a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with a minor in Music Education from Columbia College. She later received her Master of Education degree from the University of South Carolina. She devoted 34 years of her life to teaching, inspiring generations of students with her kindness, unconventional teaching methods, and love of learning.

Linda's faith and her many talents shaped every aspect of her life. She was a member of Kilbourne Park Baptist Church. She was also a member of the former Rosewood Baptist Church where she faithfully served as organist and children’s choir director for many years. She enjoyed participating in and playing the piano for the Women to Women's Prayer Group at Temple Baptist Church, and also found great joy in attending classes through the Shepherd's Center, where she continued to learn and build lasting friendships.

Music and the arts were among Linda's greatest passions. She delighted audiences by performing in community theater productions including Oklahoma!, Oliver!, and Mame at various theaters throughout the Columbia area. An accomplished artist, she loved sketching, drawing, and painting, always finding beauty in the world around her. She also found peace tending her garden, where she lovingly grew flowers, plants, and vegetables.

Perhaps nothing brought Linda greater happiness than her family. She treasured every moment spent with her beloved grandchildren, Brennan and Avery, whose lives were enriched by her boundless love and encouragement. She also shared a special bond with all of her cats, but especially Oliver, whom she proudly taught to "play the piano," much to the delight of family and friends.

Known for her warm spirit and genuine kindness, Linda never met a stranger. Whether through conversation, a helping hand, or an infectious smile, she had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued.

Linda was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Farrell Byrd Rose; her sisters, Mary Ellen and Susan Anita Watkins; and her parents, George D. and Thelma C. "Bye Shug" Watkins.

She is survived by her son, Alan Rose (Malerey); her daughter, Amanda Rose; her brothers, Randy Watkins and David Watkins (Margie); her grandchildren, Brennan and Avery Rose; her nephews, Paul Watkins (Jeany), Robert Rose, and Lee Shaw (Tracy); her nieces, Christy Prochaska, Mary Alice Edmonds (Carter), Rebecca Esslinger (Bob); as well as numerous great-nieces and great-nephews, extended family members, numerous cat family, dear friends, former students, and all whose lives she touched.

A visitation will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Thompson Funeral Home, 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia, South Carolina. Funeral services will immediately follow at 12:00 noon, with burial afterward.

Though Linda's vivacious presence will be deeply missed, her legacy of faith, music, learning, creativity, compassion, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.