Rose “Retha” Marie Taylor Mccullough

Mrs. Rose Marie Taylor McCullough “Retha,” age 72, in Rock Hill, SC, peacefully answered the Master’s call and departed this earthly journey to rest on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at the Wayne T. Patrick Hospice Center.

Born in York County, South Carolina, on October 10, 1951, she was preceded in death by her parents, the late Bozzy Earl Taylor and Rosa Mae (Blake) Taylor. Her siblings are Earline T. Lopez, Barbara T. Smith, and Bozzy Lee Taylor, to whom she was devoted as a big sister and mother figure.

She is survived by her high school sweetheart and loving husband of 49 years, Mr. Harold E. McCullough of Rock Hill, SC.  Their children are Shemieka L. Taylor of Charlotte, NC, and Enon J. McCullough and Erinn M. Wylie (Charles Wylie Jr.) of Rock Hill, SC, whom she loved and encouraged to pursue their goals. Rose had 7 grandchildren whom she had a strong presence in naming: Channing LeighAnn Ayers, Eric Joshua Gaines, Eric Jewann Gaines, Eric Matthew Gaines, Kristen Marie Gaines, Chloe London McCullough, and Eimma Cree Wylie, four great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.

Rose graduated from Emmett Scott High School in the class of 1969 and furthered her education at the University of South Carolina and York Technical College. She served the York and Rock Hill School Districts in different capacities but ended her career at Dutchman Creek Middle School as a receptionist. Outside of work, she was known for being a talented seamstress with an eye for detail. Rose was also a wedding and event coordinator.

Rose was an active and devout member of St. Matthews AME Zion Church. She made many fond acquaintances as she took on many voluntary acts such as VBS teacher. Rose sang with the St. Matthews’ Mass Choir as an adult choir member. She served as a class leader and financial secretary on the steward board. Rose was also a dedicated Faith and Order Conference delegate. She diligently served as a chairman of the Missionary Department and leader in the Christian Education Department.

Rose was passionate about education and often indulged in learning. She enjoyed traveling, and she was a dedicated individual who loved family. Her gift to the world was to see it as it was while seeking a way to add to its beauty. Rose was cultured, creative, and an excellent cook.

Rose T. McCullough leaves a standard for us to build on as we remember and cherish the loving memories for her family and friends to honor.