Rosa Maria Sestito

Rosa Maria Sestito. The Yellow Rose of Texas, who never knew a stranger, entered eternal life on Saturday, March 5, 2022.

Her spirit is carried on by her soulmate, three children, five grandchildren, four great grandchildren, two surviving sisters, and an extended family of relations and friends from every walk of life.

Those who knew Rosa were blessed to learn many valuable lessons during her 75 years, among them: Every part of any type of food is edible because “back in Tejas, they didn’t have much.” Always bring a green salad to any get together. Tupperware, if taken care of, can be used for decades. Any older appliance is an “oldie but goodie.” “Sana sana colita de rana” can soothe any child, as well as the repeat of “Roo” in three’s while patting the back. If children say they are “bored,” give them a chore to do. Don’t let children stay in the house too long – have them go out and meet other kids in the neighborhood. The best toys and clothes can be found at Good Will or the 99 Cents Only Store. Grey hair can be handled with a bit of dark colored lipstick.

Those who've taken Rosa’s lessons to heart will continue to ensure that every child is well behaved, guests will be greeted with a piping hot coffee or an iced tea, a green salad, consisting of mostly vegetables, will be at all future family events, a White Zinfandel filled to the brim with crushed ice will be shared at the regular Tuesday & Thursday night hangout spot – Glory Days.

Rosa was a devout Catholic who would give the shirt off her back to anyone in need and never complained. She singlehandedly babysat almost every child in her neighborhood while caring for her own children, was a caregiver to her mother, and in more recent years, volunteered for Meals on Wheels in her spare time. Oh, and every child behaved at Rosa’s house.

In her lifetime, Rosa made sure to stay in contact with everyone she knew, possibly in the form of a sweet, long voicemail or a letter that warmed your heart, put a smile on your face, or made you laugh.

She is survived by her children and grandchildren whose photos could be found on every wall, shelf and surface throughout her house: Bill Jr. (wife Lara, children Devin [husband Josh] and Tessa, grandchildren Crash and Sue); Chris (wife Darcie, children Coryn [husband Zac], Aaron [wife Nicole], and Holden, grandchildren Ezra and Willow); and Teresa; sisters San Juana (husband Roque) and Elva; sister-in-law Felipa; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, friends and family too numerous to list but not forgotten.

Rosa is also survived by husband, lifelong partner, polar opposite, and caregiver, Bill Sestito Sr.

She is reunited with her brother Florencio “Lencho” Perez, sister Noemi “Chata” Perez, and her parents.

Family (near and far) as well as friends (old and new), please continue to check this website for more updates as to when and where the memorial service and reception will be held for Rosa.

In Rosa’s memory, donations may be made to any charity that seeks to spread good will.

Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401