Rosemary Ward

Rosemary Ward, of Sanford, Maine, lovingly known as Rose, passed away on October 3, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on March 20, 1945 in Gouverneur, NY she was the daughter of the late Howard and Marion (Salmon) McBroom.

Rose was a beloved wife, partner, mother, grandmother, sibling, aunt, and friend.  She was a strong, brave, and loving woman whose life was defined by her generous heart, enduring devotion to her family, and the countless ways she cared for those around her.

Rose was the kind of person who was always on the go, always helping someone, and always making sure everyone else was taken care of. Even in the days leading up to her hospitalization, she continued to live life on her own terms, putting the needs of others before her own. She rarely complained and faced life with a strength and courage that those who knew and loved her will never forget. She had a heart of gold and was always there for anyone who needed her. To Rose, family was everything, and making sure her loved ones were happy, cared for, and never went without was her greatest priority.

One of Rose’s greatest joys was cooking and baking for the people she loved. Holidays were especially meaningful, as she filled her home with the warmth of homemade food and the love that went into every dish. And, of course, no one ever left without something to take home. That was simply Rose—always giving, always thinking of others, and always finding another way to show her love. These little acts of kindness were part of what made her so special and created memories her family will carry with them forever.

Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy. She loved spending time with them, spoiling them whenever she could, and receiving pictures that allowed her to share in their everyday lives. They brought her immeasurable happiness, and her love for each of them was endless. The memories they created together, the traditions she passed down, and the love she poured into their lives will remain with them forever.

Rose also shared a very special and unconditional love with her beloved dog, Mya. Mya was so much more than a pet to Rose—she was her baby, her constant companion, and her everything. The bond they shared was truly special, and Mya brought Rose a kind of happiness and comfort that only a beloved pet can give. Rose loved Mya with her whole heart, caring for her and treating her as part of the family.

Rose leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory and the countless ways she made their lives better. She is survived by her daughter, Robin Greenlaw, of Sanford, Maine; her son, Scott Sibley, and his partner, Dominique Selim, of Sanford, Maine; and her grandchildren and their partners: Heather Nelson and John Rocheville, of Savannah, Georgia; Richard Dunton and Alyssa Wright, of Sanford, Maine; Sarah Dunton and Joseph Bagdanovich, of Sanford, Maine; Chase Sibley and Kelsie Hasty, of Sanford, Maine; and Alyssa Sibley and Porter, of Kennebunk, Maine.

She was a proud great-grandmother to Ezekiel and Eliana Nelson; Amadeus and Azalea Bagdanovich; Greyson and Jameson Wright; Dax Chabab; and Kai Dunton. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were among her greatest blessings, and she treasured every moment, every picture, and every opportunity to shower them with love.

Rose is also survived by her sisters, Patsy Smith (Robert) and Sharein Elliott; her brothers, Terry McBroom (Marie) and Thomas McBroom (Vicki); her brothers-in-law, Del Thomas, Danny Wilde, Maurice Theriault, and Bob Silcott; and her sisters-in-law, Sharlene McBroom and Virginia Downie and many nieces and nephews.

She also leaves behind her stepchildren, Johnny and Jerry Ward and Ryan Ordway.

Along with her partner, Steve Foss, who held a special place in her life. Rose also loved Steve’s daughters, Jewlie Foss (Joseph), and Amber Foss (Marc) as her own daughters. She cherished the family they shared, including Amber’s children, Violet and Marc, who were part of the extended family she held dear.

Rose was predeceased by her parents, Howard McBroom and Marion Peck; her stepfather, Robert Peck; her son, Tommy Sibley; her husband, Gerald Ward; her son-in-law, Richard Dunton; and her daughter-in-law, Kristy Sibley. She was also predeceased by her siblings, Sidney McBroom, Linda Benjamin, and Howard “Dick” McBroom; her brothers-in-law, Ron Downie and Charlie Elliott; and her sisters-in-law, Beth Silcott and Natalie Wilde.

Rose’s passing leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of those who loved her. While her family will deeply miss her presence, her love, strength, generosity, and devotion will continue to live on through the many lives she touched. Her legacy is one of putting family first, giving without hesitation, and loving with her whole heart. Though she may no longer be here to cook one more meal, send one more picture, or make sure everyone has what they need, the love she gave so freely will never be forgotten.  And, as she always said it’s never Goodbye it’s See You Later.

In keeping with Rose’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or funeral services.  A private gathering will be held at a later date to honor and remember her life.

Forever loved, forever missed, and forever in our hearts.