Helen Poore Rose

Helen Poore Rose, known affectionately to family as "Mamaw", passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Friday, June 26, 2026, at her home in Clarksville, Maryland, at the age of 93. She was born in Cumberland Gap, Tennessee, on July 18, 1932, to the late George Herman Poore and Edith Williams Poore. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin Reed Rose, and her beloved sister, Dolores Vann. Their memories remained close to her heart always.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Linda Rose Havilland (Cindy Bratten) and Cheryl Rose Connell; her cherished grandchildren, Lisa Rose Havilland, Benjamin Reed Havilland (Gabrielle), and Amber Rose Hill (Tyler); her treasured great-grandchildren, Reed, Mae and Emerson Rose; as well as her nephew, Steve Vann; great niece, Stephanie Vann (Paul); great nephew, Gregory Vann (Kali); and an extended family of loved ones who will carry forward her legacy of love and resilience.

Helen was a 1950 graduate of Powell Valley High School. Shortly after graduating, she moved to Washington, DC to pursue a job with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), where she worked for her entire career of 34 years. At the FBI, she made lasting friendships with people from all over the United States. After retirement, she valued her phone calls with friends who were near and far. Her memory was one to marvel at! She could recall dates and past events with pinpoint accuracy and often started conversations with “Do you remember…” and then the stories would begin. She was funny and witty, often quietly dispersing quips you would miss if you weren’t listening carefully. She faithfully read the newspaper each day, followed the local sports teams, loved watching Jeopardy and Gunsmoke and always knew the weather report.

Helen’s family was the center of her world. She loved them fiercely and wanted the very best for them. That love was unwavering and deeply felt. She will be remembered for her smile, her kindness, her laughter, her strength, and the love she gave so freely. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in all who knew and loved her.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 10:00-11:00 AM, at Arnett & Steele Valley Chapel, 6340 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, TN 37752.

Graveside services to follow at Hooper Cemetery, 530 Hooper Cemetery Road, Cumberland Gap, TN 37724.

Arnett & Steele Valley Chapel is honored to serve the family and friends of Helen Poore Rose.