Rosemary Fox Stamey, age 78, of the Jonas Ridge community, went Home to be with the Lord on Thursday, December 4th, 2025. Born in Avery county, she was a daughter of the late Roby Adam and Ovela Barlowe Fox. Rosemary was also preceded in death by her brothers: Denver, James and Gary Fox; sisters, Alvareeta Barrier and Pansy Bumgardner; and special nieces: Linda Bumgardner and Teresa Lyall.
Rosemary leaves behind a legacy of kindness, devotion and a life beautifully lived. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister; her greatest joy was her family. Rosemary loved being outdoors, especially hiking with her husband Raymond. Nature was her peaceful place and she found joy in every flower, every breeze and every mountain view. She also enjoyed spending time in her own flower gardens.
She was known for her love of “loafering” around; especially if it included a stop at Belk. Shopping trips were adventures with Rosemary, full of laughter and good company. Her favorite artist was Elvis Presley, and when news of his passing came, she sat quietly in front of the television and cried, grieving the loss of someone whose music meant so much to her.
Left to cherish her memory is Rosemary’s loving husband of 62 years, Raymond William Stamey; daughters: Stephanie Stamey, Libby Yarber (Eddie) and Debbie Finley; grandchildren: Tanya, Shandi (Christopher), Hannah (Tommy), Seth, Justin, Jacob, Madison and Mykenzie (Gideon); great-grandchildren: Syera, Brayden, Abby, Jameson, Malcom, Dawson, Saylor and Haisley; brother, Wade Fox; sister, Sue Gragg; several beloved nieces and nephews also survive.
A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9th, 2025 in the Jestes Cemetery off of Jestes Cemetery Road, Banner Elk, NC. Pastor Tony Clark will be officiating.
Memorial donations to honor Rosemary’s life can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, at 501 St Jude PL, Memphis, TN 38105-9959.
