Rose Marie Lomax, age 88, of New Philadelphia, died Tuesday, July 21, 2026, in Cleveland Clinic Akron General Hospital, following a brief illness.

Born in Union Hospital at Dover on February 23, 1938, Rose was a daughter of the late Paul and Vivian Watson Watkins.

Rose was a 1956 graduate of Philadelphia High School and furthered her education at Kent State University, Tuscarawas, where she obtained an Associate of Business Degree. She was employed by General Electric and retired from Pacemaker Plastics. In her retirement years, Rose enjoyed her work as a receptionist at Hennis Care Center of Dover.

Her faith in God was the foundation of her life. A devoted member of Community of Christ Church for many years, she faithfully served in a variety of ministry roles, including pastor, elder, and musician. She found great joy in caring for others, especially through visiting elderly and homebound members of her church, offering them companionship, encouragement, and the comfort of her unwavering faith.

Additionally, Rose found peace working in her flower gardens, being a member of the Music Club, and spending time with her family and attending the activities of grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband of 67 years, David A. Lomax, whom she married on November 8, 1958, and their children; Robert (Tamara ) Lomax, Laura Bell, Richard (Janie) Lomax, and Lynn (Kevin) Sparks all of New Philadelphia; grandchildren, Tom (Falesha) Lomax, Ben Lomax, Amy Bell, Ashley (Corey Dial) Bell, and Andrew Lomax; step-grandchildren, Hayley (John Middleton) Wagner, and Madison (Robert Dennis) Wagner; two great grandchildren, Theo and Vinnie Lomax; three step-great-grandchildren, Zoey Paisley and Jasmine Middleton, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Rose was preceded in death by two brothers, Sam Watkins and Robert Watkins, and a step-grandson Cory George.

In honoring her wishes, there will be no public visitation or services. The Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia is handling cremation arrangements.