Rose Estelle (Valliere) Wood

Rose Estelle Wood, 93 of Colchester, passed away peacefully on the morning of Sunday May 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on September 18, 1931, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of the late Henry and Irene (St. Amand) Valliere. On December 10, 1960, she married the love of her life, the late Curtis D. Wood. They shared nearly 30 years together until his passing on June 7th 1989. 

Early in life, Rose worked as a Seamstress. After becoming a mother, she dedicated herself to raising her children and caring for her home. She also extended her nurturing spirit to others, babysitting for many children. She then worked as a machine operator at Pratt & Whitney for 11 years before retiring in 1990. A devoted Catholic, she was a faithful communicant of St. Andrew’s Church in Colchester.

In her free time, Rose found joy in baking, playing cards with her dear friend Denise Treglia, and going for walks with her special friend and neighbor Robin Peck. She will be remembered most for her warmth, kindness, and gentle nature. She never spoke a harsh word about anyone and was always more concerned with the needs of others than her own. Her family especially remembers her loving care of Aunt Dot during her illness—a true testament to Rose's selflessness and devotion.

Rose is survived by her son, Curtis Wood II of Portland; her daughter, Dorothy Gardner and husband Dan of Lebanon; her son in law Bob Whitcomb of Rocky Hill; her sisters, Carol Sprague of Rhode Island and Janice Burke and husband Duke of Lebanon; grandchildren, Teri Wagoner and husband Carl, Brian Gardner, and Kevin Gardner; two great-grandchildren; and numerous extended family members and friends.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her daughter, Debbie Whitcomb, and her siblings, Henry D. Valliere, Henry O. Valliere, Rene Valliere, Leo Valliere, Emile Valliere, Roland Valliere, Alice Fournier, and Nancy Morey.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, June 1, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Road, Colchester, CT. A chapel service will follow at 1:00 PM at the funeral home, burial will take place after the service in the Linwood Cemetery. To share a memory or leave a message of condolence, please visit www.auroramccarthyfuneralhome.com. 

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