Our beloved matriarch passed away peacefully on August 5, 2020, after a short battle with cancer. She leaves behind an inspiring legacy of love and selflessness. She was born to Ross Holt and Ada Massey on May 24, 1948, in Radville, Saskatchewan. She adored her parents and enjoyed a childhood of music, dancing, athletics, family pets, and visits to the lake and farm. She started her own family in 1969 when she married Stanley Gordon Softley, and remained by his side for the next 51 years. Shortly afterwards, they joined the LDS church and became a forever family. In those early years, she modestly hoped that she would eventually have enough family to fill an entire pew, a goal she accomplished many times over. She was a true believer in the gospel of Jesus Christ and showed it with a life of service. She loved making gift boxes for needy children and military personnel, giving stuffed animals for every occasion, and secretly delivering treats to her many friends. She was one of the original volunteers and founding supporters of the Airdrie Festival of Lights, Western Canada’s largest free outdoor Christmas light display. She hosted epic holiday dinners where no detail was too small. She had an enduring love for family history, resulting in an extended family adventure across the USA and Canada in a converted school bus to find her ancestors. Her sense of adventure eventually brought her to Provo, Utah, where she helped run and decorate the Flags and Stuff store with her hubby for almost 20 years. She set the example all the way to the end by facing death with faith and without fear. She knew that she would sing again and looked forward to a wonderful reunion with many loved ones. Our thoughts are with you until we meet again and join you in song. She was preceded in death by her parents and one grandchild. She is survived by her husband Stanley Gordon; her children, Christine Graham (Kevin), Tracey Minaker (Dave), Daniel (Kimberly Hanks), David (Jennifer DeLoura), Jennifer Restivo (John); 25 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; her sister Merrilee; her brother Wally; and several nieces and nephews.
Rosanne Agnes Softley
May 24, 1948 - Aug 5, 2020
Dear Stan
I feel real sad & miss her and I feel so sorry for your loss Rose and I remember met you & Rose (1996 at AFOLS) open. and She alway smile on me & my son too I love both you & Rose, too but now me still miss her :'(
I hope so Rose feel better in beautiful heaven & garden, that no more pain in Heaven Amen and we hugs to you heart
Love Brenda & Robin and Justin Kerr in Alberta
On behalf of the board of Directors, we'd like to offer our sincere condolences to the entire family. Rose played an integral part in establishing the Airdrie Festival of Lights back in 1996 with Stan, and we are forever grateful for the contribution of the Softley family, in bringing this amazing event and organization to light! May she rest in peace, and you all find comfort in the cherished memories you've shared.
To Stan, and family:
During this time of loss, may the veil be thin and you feel your loved Roseanne’s smile and influence in your lives!
Sincerely,
A fellow ward member
Sharon Thomas
I will miss her so much. She was so giving, loving, and so beautiful. She gave everything with love. She taught me so much. My heart aches but, I know she is singing!
I'm so sorry for your loss. I have always loved supporting "our" flag store in Provo and have felt a love for both Rosanne and Stan, as they always made us feel welcome and loved in their store. You are wonderful, patriotic people and I hope, Stan, you know you have a lot of support here in Provo. I had no idea she was ill. Please know that you are in our prayers and I pray for comfort for you and your family, Stan. Thanks to you both for adding a wonderful piece of heaven and patriotism in Provo.
Dear Stan and Family My Thoughts and Prayers are with You. I'm so glad I got to see Rosanne when she was out in Sask. last spring.
I’m so sorry for your loss, I remember your mom as such a kind and lovely person. My thoughts and sympathies are with you all.
So very sorry to hear about your loss. I loved your mom right away. We were drawn to each other because our names were the same. She was truly a great lady. I sure do love each of you kids too. I have fond memories with each of you. I remember the bus. Love Rose Anne Travers
Rosanne is such a sweet spirit who truly loves her family. She will be missed for a season but is not gone forever.
So grateful for the Plan of Salvation and the knowledge that we will all be together again in the presence of our Heavenly Father.
I am sorry for your lost. My heart felt sympathy to your family.