Rosie E Upshaw

Rosie Ella Pratt Upshaw (Rene), daughter of the late Deacon Robert L. Pratt and Rosa Clarke Pratt, was born on June 16, 1932, in Essex County, VA. She entered into glory and eternal rest on September 3, 2023.

At an early age, she accepted Christ as her personal Savior at Zion Baptist Church, Chance, VA. She later moved her membership to Shiloh Baptist Church, Bowling Green, VA prior to joining Shiloh Baptist Church, Port Royal, VA.

Throughout her life, she worked diligently in the church as an active member, with a gift of being an outstanding fundraiser. She had a way of requesting donations and hosting events where others were willing to give unselfishly—her Women in Hats, Men in Black events were legendary. She enjoyed singing on the choir and serving on the missionary and pastoral committees. During Homecoming and other church activities, she brought homecooked dishes and cakes to the events and members delighted in her cooking.

She was educated in the Essex County school system, where she was later employed for many years.

While living in Port Royal, she managed the household at the historical Belle Grove Estate, which was the birthplace of President James Madison. During her recent visit to the estate in December 2022, her years of service were acknowledged during their Christmas holiday event, which was attended by guests from near and far.

Mom was an active member of the community and served multiple terms as an elected member of the Port Royal Town Council. During a particularly controversial election, she made the regional news! In fact, a Richmond news station arrived at her home with cameras for a televised interview when she was the only elected official not to be voted out of office. Residents of the community trusted and supported her each time she ran for re-election. To further her community service, she was a longstanding member of the Ruritan Club, known as “America’s leading community service organization.” She also served as an election poll worker during local and national elections.

Rene’s annual yard sales were major events in the area—people came from all around to be first in line and they would gather early to have their choice of items.

Rene was known for her green thumb—every tree and flower she planted flourished—take a look at the towering trees and colorful crepe myrtles all around her home today! She had a keen eye for interior design, with timeless landscaping and decorating flare. Her talents extended to making personalized, painted ceramics items—the family is still enjoying Christmas trees, lamps and other pieces she created through the years.

Rene and Bill’s home was the hub of huge family celebrations and much anticipated holiday get-togethers. Family and friends would travel for many miles to eat her amazing food, play cards, listen to music and enjoy each other’s company.

Rene never hesitated to board a plane to be with her girls—her travels included Canada to California, Texas to Nebraska, and New York City to New Orleans!

Rene leaves to cherish her memory husband of 55 years Morton Upshaw, Jr., two daughters, Shirley White (Charles) of Alexandria, VA and Clara Woody (C.T.) of Richmond, VA and granddaughter Tara Dunlop Jackson (Jack) of Brandywine, MD. She is survived by two dear sisters, Myrtle Beale (Milton) of Capitol Heights, MD and Mable Wright (Milton) of Woodbridge, VA, sister-in-law Elsie Pratt of Caret, VA, devoted cousin Mary Broaddus (Frank) of Richmond, VA and a host of other nieces, nephews, family, friends and extended family members to include the White family of Pittsburgh, PA and the Woody family of Montpelier, VA. She leaves behind dear in-laws Robert and Karen Baylor of Milford, VA and Renee Darby of Bronx, NY.

She was preceded in death by five sisters, Edna and Mary Pratt, Martha Taylor, Virginia Henry and Louise Atkinson, and two brothers Llewylen and Robert Pratt.