Rosemary Templeton Zeni, 74, of Rock Hill, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on May 14, 1951, in Elkins, West Virginia, Rosemary was the cherished daughter of Robert and Pauline Templeton.

Rosemary’s life was one of devotion—to her faith, her family, and her passion for learning. A devout Methodist throughout her life, she was baptized at First United Methodist Church in Elkins and remained a steadfast member from childhood. She later raised her own children in the First United Methodist Church in Fairmont, West Virginia. Her unwavering trust in the Lord guided her through life’s challenges and joys alike.

Education was a cornerstone of Rosemary’s life. She attended Fairmont State College and West Virginia University, where she earned a Master’s Degree in Education. Her love for stories and learning translated into a teaching career marked by cleverness and respect for her students. Rosemary’s dedication to education reflected her belief in the power of knowledge to inspire and uplift.

Rosemary shared 50 beautiful years of marriage with her devoted husband, Alan Zeni. Together they built a life centered on love and family. She is survived by Alan; their two children, Amanda Kerrigan and Alan Zeni; son-in-law, Craig Kerrigan; and grandchildren, Ronan Kerrigan, Neve Kerrigan, and Luca Kerrigan. Rosemary also leaves behind her sister, Sue Ellen Johnson; and brother-in-law, Don Johnson; their children, Donny Johnson and Jessica Hajiran with her husband, Ali Hajiran; and their children; as well as many other beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Pauline Templeton; her brother, Bobby; her parents-in-law, Angeline Zeni and Angelo Zeni; along with numerous cousins and dear friends who enriched her life.

Rosemary found joy in the simple yet profound pleasures of life. She loved tending to her garden, where she cultivated beauty with care. An avid bird enthusiast, she delighted in listening to birdsong and identifying the feathered visitors that graced her home. Music and art were also close to Rosemary’s heart—she played piano with grace and found solace in creative expression. Dramas captivated her imagination as much as they reflected the depth of human experience she so deeply understood.

Though shy by nature, Rosemary faced social situations with quiet courage—a testament to her determination to connect with others despite discomfort. Her gentle spirit belied a fierce loyalty to those she loved; nothing escaped the watchful eye of her formidable intelligence when it came to protecting them.

Charitable and compassionate by nature, Rosemary lived a life defined by kindness. Her faithfulness to God shaped every aspect of who she was—a woman whose love for others radiated through every action she took.

Rosemary passed from this world surrounded by those who adored her most deeply. Her family will forever cherish the memories they created together—the laughter shared over meals, the lessons imparted through quiet wisdom, the warmth of unconditional love that defined every moment spent in her presence.

Her legacy lives on through all who were fortunate enough to know her—a legacy of faithfulness, courage, compassion, and an enduring love for family above all else.

May Rosemary Templeton Zeni rest in eternal peace under God’s care. She will be desperately missed but never forgotten. Those who knew her will carry forward the light she brought into their lives forevermore.

A Visitation will be held on Monday, April 13, 2026, from 12:15 PM to 01:00 PM and a funeral service at 1:00 at St. John's United Methodist Church, 130 Tom Hall St., Fort Mill, SC.

Donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, St. John's United Methodist Church in Fort Mill, SC, or Wayne T. Patrick Hospice House of Rock Hill will be appreciated in lieu of, or in addition to flowers.

Whitesell Funeral Home is serving the family.