Rosemary “Rosie” Heisman Smith
June 25, 1943 – December 13, 2025
Rosemary Heisman Smith, lovingly known as “Rosie” to family and friends and “Gammy” to her grandchildren, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on June 25, 1943, she lived a life filled with devotion, generosity, laughter, and love.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Albert and Ruth (née Burg) Heisman; her brother James Heisman; her sisters Helen Heisman Schmidt and Ruth Heisman Mason; and her cherished granddaughters Kayla Stos and Stephanie Senescu.
Rosie was a devoted mother to Michelle (Howard), Bradley (Missy), and Chad (Jeanine); a loving stepmother to Tracy (Michael); and a proud grandmother to Collin, Brandon, Laci, and Noah. She was a beloved aunt to Pauline, Christine, Scott, Paul, Peter, Becky and a great-aunt to several.
To her grandchildren, she was “Gammy” their biggest fan, their comfort, and their constant source of encouragement. She could always be found in the stands at their sporting events, purse full of snacks, cheering louder than anyone else and making sure no one left hungry or unsupported.
A lover of all flowers, especially orchids, Rosie herself bloomed wherever she was planted. She was the life of the party, always ready to dance, laugh, and bring people together. Her joy was infectious, her smile unforgettable, and her presence filled every room with warmth.
Rosie dedicated more than four decades of her life to healthcare, serving others with compassion, skill, and humility. A graduate of the Cook County Graduate School of Medicine, where she earned her certification as a Laboratory Technician, she also attended Carl Schurz High School, Class of 1967, in Chicago. Throughout her career, she worked alongside physicians in internal medicine, pediatrics, dermatology, and women’s health, providing exceptional care and comfort to countless patients across the Chicago area.
Her professional journey included long-standing service at Highland Park Women’s Health, OB-GYNE Associates, Dr. Richard Gayes’ Internal Medicine, Dr. Hagler and Dr. Dobkin Pediatrics, Dr. Jerome Frankel’s Internal Medicine, and Dr. Donald Temple’s Dermatology practice. Rosie was respected not only for her knowledge and skill, but for her gentle demeanor and genuine care for those she served.
Much like the poem that reflects her spirit, Rosie’s life was defined by sacrifice and devotion. No act of love was ever too small, no effort too great. She asked for nothing in return, finding her greatest happiness in giving, whether through her work, her family, or the simple joy of showing up for those she loved.
As a mother, grandmother, and friend, Rosie was steady, nurturing, and endlessly loving. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the lives she touched, and the memories that will be held sacred forever.
Services will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Acacia Park Cemetery, 7800 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago, IL 60706.
May she rest in peace, surrounded by love, remembered always, and never forgotten.