Rosalie Frances Caton

Rosalie Frances Caton, born on May 6, 1944, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on December 19, 2025, surrounded by her beloved family. She will be profoundly missed by those who knew her gentle spirit and warm heart.

Rosalie was a woman of deep faith, celebrated for her kindness and loving nature. She married John Adams in 1963 at Napier Parkview Church in Benton Harbor, where their journey as a family began. As a devoted mother, she cherished the time spent with her children, creating lasting memories such as the homemade blueberry pie made from wild blueberries picked during summer outings. She enjoyed nurturing her garden and embraced the adventurous spirit of her youth, which included hunting, fishing, and rock hunting alongside her children.

A hallmark of Rosalie’s character was the strength and resilience she displayed, particularly in the face of Parkinson's Disease. Her unwavering faith was a guiding light in her life, exemplified through her dedication to sharing The Daily Bread, which she would personally sign before handing out to others. Her impressive collection of bibles, each filled with heartfelt notes, stood as a testament to her spiritual journey and the impact of her beliefs.

Rosalie held a close-knit relationship with her family, particularly with her mother, Frances, and her sister, Jenny. She was not only a dedicated mother but also a loving sister and sister-in-law. In addition to her daughters Deanna Adams and Katherine Adams, and her son John (Erin) Adams, she leaves behind seven cherished grandchildren: Morgan, Bailey, Merrill, Davis, Megan, Abigail, and Joshua. She is also survived by her sister Jenny Schroeder, brother Gene (Fran) Sapp, and stepchildren; Mary Murphy,. Patricia Smith, Joseph Caton, & Rebecca Miller. Rosalie’s life was enriched by her many cherished family members and friends.

Rosalie’s proudest accomplishments included the summers spent at Camp Rosenthal in Dowagiac, MI where she worked with youth from Chicago, teaching archery and creating eye-opening experiences that she shared with her children. Her legacy of love, kindness, and faith will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She is reunited in spirit with her late husband John Fredrick Adams, the father of her children, her second husband Thomas Nelson Caton, as well as her beloved parents Harold W. Sapp and Frances Sapp (Glowacki), and her brother Duane Sapp. Rosalie's memory will forever be cherished by her family and friends as they carry forward her legacy of love and devotion.

Cremation has been entrusted to Family First Funeral & Cremation Services. At this time, Rosalie’s family has chosen to honor her life privately. holding their memories close as they grieve and celebrate her in their own quiet way. No public services has been scheduled at this time.