Rozelle Estes Bedard, 94 of Cullman, Alabama died Saturday, January 5, 2019. The public viewing is Sunday, January 13, 2019 from 1 p.m. until the Funeral Services which will be at Moss Funeral Home at 3 p.m. in Cullman, AL with Pastor Todd Henderson officiating.
Born in Cullman, Alabama, Rozelle was the daughter of Ed and Ammie Estes. She was one of ten children. Rozelle left home at the age of 18 to work in civil service in Washington D.C. and was transferred to Europe. There she met her husband, Wilbert Ernest Bedard who was in the Army. They married in Vienna, Austria in 1947. They later came back to the states and lived in Ogdensburg, New York for fifteen years before relocating to warmer weather in Cullman.
While living in Ogdensburg, New York, Rozelle was the society editor for the Ogdensburg Journal. Upon moving to Cullman, she worked at the Cullman Hospital operating the switchboard and later moved to Human Resources. She worked both at the old hospital and Cullman Regional Medical Center, retiring in 1997. While at the hospital she served on the board for the American Red Cross and did volunteer work for United Way. During her thirty-two years at the hospital she received numerous certificates, awards, recognition for her dedication of service.
She was well known at the hospital during Christmas time as Mrs. Claus for about 25 years. She made her own outfit and used it every year. After retiring she worked at Cook’s Pest Control and the Cullman City School system serving lunches. In 1996 she was a contestant and runner up in the Mrs. Senior America of Cullman County Pageant. She performed a skit as Mrs. Claus. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Cullman for over fifty years. Rozelle had the sweetest disposition of anyone you ever met. She always had a smile, a laugh, a helping hand and the most joyful personality you will ever find.
She is survived by her Son: Eddie (Sara) Bedard, Daughters: Carin Braswell, and Lisa (Richard) Forrester. Grandchildren: Maria Bedard, Chrissie (Scott) Gardner, Heath (Leanna) Bedard, Zachary Forrester, Emily Forrester, Kristin (Johnathon) Pickett, and Amy (Jamie) McClain. Great Grandchildren: Tess Gardner, Evy Gardner, Fitz Gardner, Brody Pickett, Danielle McClain.
She was preceded in death by her husband, of 70 years, Wilbert (Bert) Ernest Bedard. Her son: Bert Bedard Jr., her son in law, Floyd Braswell, her parents and nine siblings.
Donations may be made to The First United Methodist Church of Cullman, AL.
Please visit mossservicefh.com to leave condolences for the family. Moss Service Funeral Home directing.
