Rosa Maria Lopez

Rosa Maria Carrillo Lopez, age 66, passed away on June 22, 2023, in Tucson, AZ. She was best known by her nickname “Rosie” to family and friends.

She is preceded in death by: her mother Rosa Carrillo, her father Francisco Lopez, and her brother Carlos Lopez. She is survived by her siblings: Javier Lopez (Lisa), Trini Martinez (Alfonso), Juan Lopez (Elisa), Angie Lopez, Ramon Lopez, David Lopez (Jessica), Armando Lopez, all her nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Rosie was the first of nine children; born and raised in Nogales, AZ. With family on both sides, she was spoiled with love. Later moving to Tucson, Rosie graduated from Sunnyside High School, class of 1977.

Rosie was always a very strong, independent, confident, and courageous woman. As a young adult she ventured out on her own. She moved to Long Beach, CA. where she began building a beautiful life for herself that she really enjoyed, until tragedy struck her family. Without hesitation, Rosie immediately returned to Tucson and never left again. From that point on being with her family became her top priority.

Throughout her life, Rosie worked in the social services and home healthcare fields. She even saved a few lives with her CPR training.

After her mother’s passing in 1996, at the age of 40, Rosie became the matriarch of a large and growing family. She instantly became the rock and leader her siblings looked to for support and guidance. It was a responsibility she took seriously.

She lived boldly and fearlessly, never intimated by anything or anyone. She was authentic and real, she never pretended to be someone she wasn’t. She was honest, direct, and hilarious. She spoke bluntly in Spanglish, and she kept everyone on their toes.

Known for whipping around town in her little white truck and popping in for a visit, Rosie had a true zest for life. She loved her family, celebrations, parties, dancing, music, and good food. She had a passion for flowers and crafts; often combining the two to create mementos for each special event celebrated in her family. From baby showers to weddings and everything in-between, Rosie was always there for all the major milestones.