Rose, a vibrant soul whose adventurous spirit and infectious laughter touched the hearts of all who knew her, peacefully made the transition to her eternal home in heaven with Jesus on September 21, 2026, after complications from an injury.

Born on September 19, 1940, in Emporia, Kansas, Rose was the cherished daughter of Pauline Greene and Paul Carter Sr., both of whom predeceased her, alongside her beloved husband, James Robert "Pete" Pettus, a decorated World War II veteran, her brother, Paul Carter, Jr., nephew, William Carter, and dear granddaughter, Michelle King.

Rose was educated in Hutchinson, Kansas. She worked as a cosmetologist for a time and later made a career change to real estate investing and property management. No matter what she was doing, she embarked on a life filled with love, enjoyment, and boundless curiosity. She embraced life as a true gypsy, always ready for the next excursion. Her travels took her across the globe, from the heights of the Auckland Tower in New Zealand to the vibrant landscapes of Australia, Europe and the Caribbean. Fearless at heart, Rose even experienced skydiving, hot air ballooning, and white-water rafting, always living life to the fullest on her own terms.

Rose's life was a tapestry of joy and love, woven with her devotion to her family. She leaves behind her four children, Michael Crabb (Roxann), Regina Whitsett (Greg), Rae Ditto, and Tian Kuhn (Bill), who were the light of her life. She also adored her nine grandchildren, Melissa Crabb, Stefanie King, Daniel Crabb, Dylan Ditto, Matthew Whitsett (Emma), Eliana Crabb, and Abigail Ditto, along with her two great-grandchildren, Dakota Westfall (Lily) and Kaylee Westfall. Family was everything to Rose, and she relished spending time with them, attending every graduation and celebrating life's milestones together.

With a heart full of love for America, Rose was deeply patriotic, celebrating the Fourth of July and Veterans Day with pride. Her home was always decorated for the holidays, and she found immense happiness in square dancing and thrift shopping. With her zest for life, Rose's kindness and generosity shone through in her every action, whether she was competing over a game of dominos or watching her favorite birds from her window.

A celebration of life will be held on September 27, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Prairie Vista Village located at 2785 1st Ave S, Altoona, IA. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Parkridge Specialty Care and Care Initiatives Hospice for their support in Rose's final days, ensuring her peaceful transition.

In memory of Rose's generous spirit, the family welcomes donations in her honor to the Rainbow Division Veterans Foundation. May we all carry forward the love, laughter, and adventurous spirit Rose displayed, celebrating her remarkable life with the joy and warmth she so freely shared.

Family will host final services at Boyer Funeral Home, 1116 N Desloge Dr, Desloge, MO 63601 at 10AM Tuesday, September 29th with burial to follow at St Francois Memorial Park 6776 Vo-Tech Rd, Bonne Terre, MO 63628 at 11AM.