Rose L. Giancola, 96, of Kennewick, Washington, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026, at Ciel Senior Living of Tri-Cities Memory Care in Kennewick.

Rose was born on July 15, 1929, in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, to Angeline and Joseph Greco. She spent the last 30 years of her life in the Tri-Cities area, where she became cherished by family, friends, and caregivers alike.

Throughout her life, Rose worked in several roles that showcased her dedication and warm spirit. In California, she was employed in the print shop of the Telephone Company in Victorville. Later, she worked as a salesclerk in Laughlin and Las Vegas, Nevada, where her kindness and love for people always shone through.

A woman of faith, Rose was a member of Christ the King Church in Richland, WA.

Rose is survived by her four children:

· Dave Giancola (wife Lora) of West Richland, WA

· Karen Helmick (husband Charlie) of Marysville, WA

· Mark Giancola (wife Chela) of Mexico City, Mexico

· Terri Rawlins (husband Bruce) of Richland, WA

She is also survived by her sister, Clara Minnocci, of San Diego, CA, as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her great joy.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Cosmo Giancola; her parents; her brother Joseph Greco, Jr.; and her grandson Marky Giancola, MD.

Rose will be remembered for the warmth she brought to every room and the countless memories she created with her family. She loved preparing meals, baking cookies, playing cards, and working on crossword puzzles. She welcomed all into her home, always offering something to drink and a sandwich. Her homemade pasta, sauce, and treasured Italian holiday cookies are recipes her family will lovingly carry forward for generations.

Rose especially enjoyed jigsaw puzzles—there was always one in progress at her home. Even after moving to assisted living in 2016 and later to memory care, she remained a gentle, joyful presence. Caregivers often described her as a favorite resident—soft-spoken, always smiling, and generously waving to others.

In her final weeks, Rose surprised those around her with an unexpected moment of joy: while heading to dinner, she began singing loudly along with music playing nearby. Though she typically spoke just above a whisper, this rare moment of full-voiced song reflected the peace and happiness she felt near the end of her life.

Rose’s life was also a testament to profound devotion. She cared tirelessly for her husband Cosmo during his illness and was always a source of wisdom and comfort to her children. Her legacy of love, kindness, and quiet strength will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Services:

Funeral Mass March 6 at 12:00 p.m. Christ the King Catholic Church Richland, Washington

Interment Ceremony May 1 at 11:00 a.m. Sunset Gardens Richland, Washington Rose and Cosmo will be laid to rest together.