Rose A. Smedile, 94, of Rockland, Massachusetts, passed away in her home on Saturday, January 31, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on November 13, 1931, in Messina, Sicily, the daughter of Phillipo LaTorre and Giovanna, Rose was a devoted mother, a warm and generous friend, and a faithful Jehovah’s Witness.

She learned to sew at a young age in Messina and used her talent to build a successful and beloved business. Many in the community knew her simply as “Rose of Rose’s Alteration Shop” on Webster Street in Rockland.

Rose will be remembered for her willingness to help anyone in need, her extraordinary hospitality, her unwavering devotion to God, and her positive, uplifting spirit. Her kindness touched countless lives.

She is survived by her brother, Stellario LaTorre of Aigrefeuille-d'Aunis, France, and her sister, Carmela LaTorre-Caputi of Messina, Sicily. Rose leaves behind her children:

• Angela Ashbridge of Las Vegas

• Silvana Goss Drew of Lowell, MA

• Sharon Graham and her husband, Bryan, of Gardner, MA

• Maria Miller and her husband, Darren, of Las Vegas

• Michael A. Smedile and his wife, Arleen, of Spencer, MA

She was a proud grandmother to 9 grandchildren, great-grandmother to 13, and great-great-grandmother to 1 cherished great-great-granddaughter and 1 cherished great-great grandson. Rose was predeceased by her beloved husband, Michael, as well as her sisters Domenica LaTorre, Concetta LaTorre, Michele LaTorre of Messina, Sicily, and Giuseppina LaTorre of Milan, Italy.

A service will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026. A separate invitation will be sent and shared on social media.

Her love, generosity, and joyful spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.