Rosie Mae Hunter

Rosie Mae (Payne) Hunter, age 80, affectionately known as, "Big Rose", peacefully departed this life on February 6, 2026, in Kansas City, Kansas. She was born on March 16, 1945, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana to Queen (Payne) Union; nurtured, loved and raised by her mother and “father”, Howard Union.

Raised in Little Rock, Arkansas, Rosie Mae was grounded in faith, strong family values, and perseverance—principles that guided her throughout her life. She accepted the Lord and Jesus Christ early in her life, allowing her faith to guide her actions, her compassion, and the love she shared with everyone around her. She carried herself with quiet strength, dignity, and grace, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Most recently she joined in fellowship with New Beginning Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Daniel L. Freeman I.

In 1973, Rosie Mae was joined in holy matrimony to Issac Roy Hunter. Although this union was later dissolved, they were blessed a beautiful baby girl, Diana Ross.

Rosie Mae dedicated many years of faithful service to Owens Corning, from which she proudly retired after 30 years. In every role she held, she was known for her reliability, integrity, and pride in her work. At another time in life, she was a valued employee at Crown Plaza Hotel for 5 years. Her compassion and commitment reflected her nurturing spirit and steadfast work ethic. Rosie later continued her career at the Kansas City, Kansas Public School District 500, where she worked diligently and contributed meaningfully to the lives of students and faculty. 

Beyond her professional life, Rosie Mae embraced joy and fellowship. She participated in several bowling tournaments over the years, enjoying both friendly competition and camaraderie. She loved to travel and was a devoted sports fan who loved cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals and faithfully watching NBA basketball games. She also enjoyed spending time at her favorite casino, where she delighted in the excitement and simple pleasures of the moment.

Above all, Rosie Mae was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend. She was known for her warm heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering support of those she loved. She offered encouragement freely, shared wisdom generously, and created lasting memories filled with laughter and love.

Even though Rosie Mae has departed from us here today, we find comfort in knowing she is reunited in eternal rest with her father, Howard Union; her mother, Queen Union; her sons, James Union and Christopher Union; her sister, Eddis Union; her brother, Henry Union; and many other loved ones who preceded her in death.

Left to cherish her memories and honor her legacy are: her devoted daughter, Diana R. Union-Grayson (Charles); grandchildren: LaTia Union, Brodie (Jilinda), Chrishay Union, Chaz Union (Syrra), Cameron Union, Jasmine Union, AJ Union and Darryl Johnson; great-grandchildren: Emauni, Man-Man, I'ycis, Jilayah, Brodie Jr., Ka'Ron, Ka'Neiya, DeMonee', De'Aonna and Zayn; brothers: Bobby Union, Ricky Union, Robert Union, Howard Union, Antoino Union, Kent Union; sisters: Rosie's twin, Annie Union, Thelma Curry, Tammie Union, Penny Union and Sally Union; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loving family and friends, who will all carry forward her love, wisdom, and spirit.

Rosie Mae’s legacy is one of strength, faith, dedication, kindness, and enduring love. Her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and cherished her.