Rosemary Schaeffer Sevett, age 95, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2024, in St. Paul, Minnesota. She was born on May 25, 1929, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Sol and Mina Wagner Schaeffer.
Rosemary was the beloved wife of Raymond Sevett and devoted mother to her sons Barry, Paul, and Corey Sevett. She was cherished by her daughters-in-law, Julia Sevett, Emily Zallen Sevett, Deborah Sevett, and Corey’s partner Amy Arbetter, and loved deeply by her grandchildren: Dylan Sevett, Alexandra Sevett (and her husband, Devin), Annice Sevett (and her partner Ryan), Sam Sevett (and his wife, Shayna), Noah Sevett and step-grandsons Russell and Ryan Latterman (and his wife Rebecca). Her legacy lives on in her great-grandchildren: Alana Raquel Canton Sevett, Vera Lynn Canton Sevett, and Leon Anthony Cruz Sevett. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Milton and Herbert Schaeffer; her sisters-in-law, Phyllis Yaro and Maxine Speildoch; and her daughter-in-law, Susan Courchene.
Rosemary graduated from Soldan High School in St. Louis and earned her Registered Nurse degree from Saint Luke’s Hospital Nursing School. She dedicated her life to caring for others, serving as a registered nurse at Jewish Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital in St. Louis before spending 30 years as a school nurse in the Parkway School District. She described herself as “a nurse, mother, and wife who always strived to be better,” a testament to her lifelong pursuit of excellence and compassion.
Passionate about helping those in need, Rosemary volunteered with the Red Cross and found joy later in life tutoring elementary students in reading. Her love for animals was unwavering, and she always had a devoted poodle by her side. Rosemary embraced her faith, celebrating her Bat Mitzvah in her 50s and continuing to study Torah throughout her life.
Known for her loving and generous spirit, Rosemary made friends easily and welcomed everyone with open arms. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering support touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.
A memorial service for Rosemary will be held at noon on Friday, November 8, 2024 at Mt. Zion Temple in St. Paul, MN
In lieu of flowers, Rosemary suggests donations to:
Mt. Zion Temple
Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund at Mt. Zion
Jewish War Veterans
