Rosa Ramos

Rosa was born in Lima, Peru on December 1, 1934 to Manuel Palao and Catalina Tong. She grew up with her brother, Adolfo, and her sisters, Maria Esther and Graciela (Chela). From a young age, she helped run the family household, developing the strength, dedication, and generosity that would define her life.

Just a few streets away lived her future husband, Manuel Ramos. Their friendship blossomed into a lifelong love story, and together they began a remarkable journey. They welcomed their first child, Manuel Jr., during their first year of marriage. Soon afterward, the young family moved to New York City, where Manuel completed his medical training. During those years, they welcomed two more children, Alfredo and Rosa.

Rosa's early experiences prepared her well for the demands of raising a young family while supporting her husband's busy medical career. She was an exceptional cook, a devoted wife, and the heart of their home. When the family moved to Florida in the early 1970s to be closer to family and for better opportunity (and weather!), Rosa managed not only the household but Manuel's surgical practice, running his office and keeping the family's lives on track. Together they made a remarkable team.

In 1974, Rosa and Manuel bought the land and built the home where they would spend the rest of their lives. Over the years, it became much more than a house—it became the heart of the family, filled with countless cherished memories and serving as a warm, welcoming gathering place for the local Peruvian and Latin American community. As active as Rosa and Manuel were in the community, their greatest love and proudest accomplishment were their three children, each of whom fulfilled their shared dream of becoming a physician.

As their family grew, so did their joy. They were blessed with four granddaughters—Sarah, Emily, Anna, and Rachel—who became the light of Rosa's life. She delighted in watching them grow, celebrating every milestone, from graduations (university, master degree, and medical school graduations) to careers and marriage.

In their later years, Rosa and Manuel enjoyed traveling together. When they were home, they loved welcoming family and friends, especially visitors from Peru. Their home was rarely quiet, and Rosa was always the gracious hostess, making everyone feel welcome with her warmth, kindness, and wonderful cooking.

After Manuel's passing in 2012, Rosa carried on with grace while always holding his memory close to her heart. Though she deeply missed him, she found joy in her family, her friendships, and her charitable work supporting causes in Peru. She remained actively involved with friends in helping those in need and continued to celebrate the accomplishments and happiness of her children and grandchildren.

Rosa remained living at home where she passed away peacefully, exactly as she had wished, surrounded by her three children, her beloved niece, and her daughter in law. In the weeks leading up to her passing, she was comforted by countless visits from family and friends, along with FaceTime calls from loved ones across the United States and Peru. Her final days were filled with love, laughter, cherished memories, and the presence of those who meant the most to her.

Rosa will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her generosity, her strength, her hospitality, and her ability to make everyone who entered her home feel loved. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and unconditional love that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to St Jude Research Hospital at stjude.org