Rose Marie (Manning) Winstead

Heaven received a special new member as Rose Winstead, loving wife, mother, and grandmother passed away peacefully in the early morning of June 13, 2024.
Rose was born September 9, 1941, in Newport News, VA to Paul Manning and Margaret Rose Manning (Courtney). She was the loving and devoted wife of Wayne Winstead (43 years) and former spouse to Bill Fletcher (17 years). Beloved Mother of Greg Fletcher (Jane) and Rebecca Santoro (Mark, deceased). Proud Grandmother to Jack and Tommy Fletcher and Victor Santoro.
Born and raised in Newport News, Rose finished school and began a secretarial career at nearby Ft. Monroe Army Base. During that time, Rose was introduced to then Airmen First Class Bill Fletcher, stationed at Fort Langley Air Force Base, and soon after they moved north to Cincinnati to be married (1963-1980) and to start a family.
In 1981, Rose met and married her best friend and soul mate, Wayne Winstead, after being set up on a blind date. The two spent the next 43 years, making the most of every day together. And faithful as always, Wayne was present when she peacefully left this world.
Rose was a kindhearted soul always putting people at ease with her genuine smiles and laughter. Her friendly and outgoing personality could easily turn strangers into friends and the joyful side of her has provided her family and friends with many fond memories we will always share.
Although she worked tirelessly in her job at VanLeunens for many years, she was always “family first”. Being an only child herself, Rose relished the sizable extended family she gained by marriage making herself a central and loving part of her family’s growing tapestry.
Rose will be remembered by so many for her extraordinary kindness and generosity. She enjoyed traveling and gathering together with friends each week. Rose found beauty in the little things such as her authentic antiques and collectible Christmas houses, finding the perfect decor for her home. Her smile, caring heart and unconditional love will endure and live on with so many of us forever.
A Funeral service will be held on Monday, June 24th at 11:30 am with visitation beginning at 10:30 am at Vitt, Stermer & Anderson Funeral home, 4619 Delhi Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45238.  Luncheon to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to Bayley Senior Living at www.bayleylife.org