Funeral service will be 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at Southport Baptist Church.  Burial will follow in the Dark Branch Cemetery, Winnabow, NC.  Visitation is from 5-7:00 P.M. on Friday at Friendship Baptist Church, Southport, NC.

Henry E. Rose passed away on Sunday, December 29, 2024.  He was born on December 28, 1943, in Southport, North Carolina, the beloved son of the late Mary Lillie Davis-Rose and John T. McCoy.  From a young age, he embraced his faith and accepted Christ, which guided him throughout his life.  His unwavering belief provided him with strength, comfort, and purpose, inspiring those around him. Henry proudly completed his education at Brunswick County Training School earning his diploma as part of the distinguished class of 1963. Throughout his remarkable career, Henry made noteworthy contributions to the maritime industry. He began as a Longshoreman in 1966, rising to the position of business agent in 1970, a role he held until 1985. He then became President of the International Longshoremen Association (ILA), where he led with dedication and vision for 32 years.  Additionally, he was elected as a full trustee on May 5, 1987, a position he honorably maintained until his retirement on May l, 2017.  His legacy is characterized by unwavering dedication to his work, exceptional leadership, and a profound influence on everyone who knew him. He was preceded in death by his two sisters, Mary Eliza Hicks and Shirley Rose, as well as his daughter, Lorie Ann Rose-White.  Henry is survived by three daughters, Pamela Hill (Thaddeus) of Southport, NC, Cheryl Newsome (Kevin) of Upper Marlboro, MD, and Letha Costigan (Robert) of Leland, NC.  He is also fondly remembered by his sister, Leatha Sidbury; three granddaughters, Krystal Singleton (DeAndre) of Wilmington, NC, Terri Sidberry of Greensboro, NC, and Peyton Newsome of Upper Marlboro, MD; six grandsons; Terance Jones (Sandrel) of Raleigh, NC, Derrick Jones of Cleveland, OH, Robert Costigan (Chaz) of San Diego, CA, Jeremy Rose of Charlotte, NC, Thaddeus Hill of Southport, NC and Justin Hill of Raleigh, NC; along with a "multiplicity " as Henry would say, of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friend.  He also leaves behind bonus daughters, Farcita Best, Natasha Stevens, Cybil Murray, Tia Toogood, Teresa Parker and Deirdre Clemmons.  Henry 's lifelong commitment to his family and community has made a lasting impact on all who had the honor of knowing him.  He will be profoundly missed and remembered with great respect and admiration.