Rosemary Jeanette Furnell

Rosemary Jeanette Marra Furnell passed away quietly from natural causes on June 1, 2021. Rose, Rosie, Mama Rose, Big Sis (she was blessed with many loving nicknames) was born in Havre on April 3, 1942. Rose’s family moved to Shelby  in 1949 when her father, Sam Marra, established Marra Drugs on Main Street of Shelby.

Rose attended St. William School and Shelby High School, graduating in 1961. Subsequently, she married Edward George Dean of the U.S. Navy and moved to San Diego, California. After residing in San Diego for several years, Rose returned to her beloved Montana where she remained for the rest of her life.

Rose held a variety of jobs in Shelby, starting with the soda fountain in her dad’s drug store and culminating as a receptionist position at the Crossroads Correctional Center. Upon retirement, she delved into several hobbies and collections that brought her great satisfaction. You could always count on Rose to greet you with a big smile and maybe some gentle ribbing. Her laugh was unique and infectious. She heartily enjoyed people and was loved by many.

Her final residence was the Marias Heritage Center where she could be found riding her scooter, visiting, and laughing with the residents and staff. During this difficult past year, Rose faced the COVID-19 epidemic bravely and with humor. She never complained about being scared. The isolation caused by COVID caused some boredom for her and she missed people. However, she was gracefully resilient, especially for such a fundamentally social person.

Rose was preceded in death by her infant son, Jimmy Dean; her husband, Matthew  “Matt” Furnell; and her parents, M.S. “Sam” Marra and Helen Jeanette (Thull) Marra. She is survived by her two sons, Michael Kim Dean and Glen Travis Dean both of Shelby. She also has two surviving grandsons Tanner and Noah Dean both of Shelby.

According to Rose’s wishes, there will be no services. However, Rose was an avid giver to several charities. Giving to others in need gave her great joy. She was especially generous to animal charities. If you care to, in Rose’s honor, donate to an animal charity of your choice. She will bless you from her new home in heaven where she will be reunited with her parents, husband, and little Jimmy.