Rozie Zappo-Doe
July 10, 1954 - July 31, 2025
Rozie Zappo-Doe, age 71, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Thursday, July 31, 2025.
A bright star was born in Wilmington, DE on July 10, 1954, to the late Joseph and Mollie (Moeller) Zappo, Sr. Her early childhood on Curry Lane was spent playing in the magic that only 1960’s Brookside could provide – like heading to Delaware Park to put a few dollars on the ponies with her grandfather, Pop. In later childhood, the family moved to Apple Road in Newark, where she made many friends, but particularly enjoyed telling stories about watching Rudy Baker and the Vegetables rehearse on Willa Road. Her summers were spent at the family cottage in Lewes, with many hours spent on Second Street, during simpler times.
After graduating from Newark High School in 1972, Rozie, already a talented artist, continued her study at the Art Institute of Philadelphia. This, however, it turns out, would not be her life’s passion. She would find her true calling in helping others, whether that be through her work with Easter Seals, including running telethons and rubbing shoulders with the likes of Colin Powell and Richard Simmons (yes, that one!) – or in creating Compassionate Care Hospice Foundation to support those in hospice care.
As she liked to quote, “Second star to the right, and straight on til morning”, I have no doubt upon her arrival in Neverland, she was greeted by her own cast of Lost Boys, her grandfather, Joseph Zappo, Sr.; her dear old dad, Joseph Zappo, Jr.; and her beloved brother, Joseph Zappo, III. That is if she’s not first trampled by her many dogs and cats from over the years, but especially her precious Nancy, who is surely waiting to show off her “new new” tricks.
Rozie was preceded in death by her previous partner, Julian Bovell.
Rozie is survived by her dedicated husband, Jerry Blamoh Doe; sister-in-law, Brenda Zappo; niece, Jennifer Whisler (John); nephew, Joseph Zappo (Suzanne); great-nephew, Jake Whisler; and great-nieces, Leksi Rhoades and Layla Zappo. She will be missed dearly.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10am until 11am on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, DE, where a memorial service will begin at 11am. Inurnment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rozie’s memory to the Brandywine Valley SPCA, 290 Churchmans Road, New Castle, DE 19720 or online by clicking here.
Jane Tupin
I was a high school classmate of Rozie’s. I’m very sorry to hear of her passing.
Gretchen Patterson
I met Rozie at the Post-polio support group at Easter Seals. She later asked me if I wanted a job at ES & we just clicked after that. I considered her a very dear friend and will miss her dearly.
Susan S Kemether
Rozie’s Family, I’m so saddened to read of My Dear Friend Rozie’s passing. She was such a kind and considerate person who helped many people during her work with Compassionate Care and other organizations she had worked for. She will certainly be missed by all of us who had the pleasure of knowing her.
My condolences to all her family. Susan
‘
Georgia Baker
A bright light came into my life when Rozie and I crossed paths. She was destined to be a very important friend to me.
I don’t think I have ever known a
kinder heart and a more loving soul as hers.
It’s been a long journey sweet Rozie, you’re at peace. We are left to carry on with a large piece of our hearts gone. Till we meet again my friend!
Fly with the Angels,
“Second star to the right and straight on till morning”.
Virginia Jennings
My dearest Rozie, you were the brightest star I’ve ever known, beautiful in every way. One of your last acts of kindness and compassion was to see me through my beloved Gary’s hospice. I’m sure you two are together now, singing, playing music and dancing! Please give each other big hugs from me. Love you Rozie. ❤️🩹
Jerilyn Carroll
I loved this woman. We never met in person, but shared a lot of time together. She inspired me so much with her caring, stories of her struggles she survived and her love for her animals and nature. I miss her so much.
Sue Hornung
Rosie and I met several years ago working on a hospice project. She was dedicated, kind, and hard working as she kept us smiling through a tedious project. Remember that one, Blamoh?
I am so sorry for your loss.
DIANA BANDAK
Sweet Rozie. You are such a dear friend and I shall miss you. We had great and crazy fun times in high school.So.e borderline sketchy. 😍 You have always been there for me through my difficult times. Rest in peace my beautiful friend. You will always be in my heart.
ANNIE HOLDEN
I met Rozie 25+ years ago and from the first interaction, we became SISTERS/FRIENDS. We traveled, ate, listen to Soca & Reggae music and danced like no one was looking. Our love for music kept us at Chesapeake Inn, Schaefer’s, Waterman’s and too many more places to name. Rozie was a true Friend to the end. Life took us in different directions, but nothing could break our friendship. I love you Old Gurl (as I called you).
Connie (Walstrum) Mullen
We were HS classmates, class of ’72. So sorry to hear of Rosie’s passing. RIP Rozie.🙏🙏