August 29, 1948 — June 16, 2016

Rosemary "Rosie" Cyphers Gehlbach, 67, of Leander, TX, passed away peacefully in Longview, TX with her loving family at her side on June 16, 2016 after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer. She is preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Cahutta Cyphers, and by her grandson, Christopher Goodman. Rosie is survived by her husband Ralph; children Janet (David) Goodman and granddaughter Ashley, Jeff Gehlbach (Katie Schaaf), Kim (David) Wyatt and grandson Alden and granddaughter Charlotte.

Rosie was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was a "second mother", or extended family to several of her children's friends growing up, embracing the role and loving them as her own. Rosie and Ralph exemplified the purest meaning of marriage, and she will always be an inspiration to her daughters as they navigate motherhood. She cared deeply for her family, friends, and also for herself. Rosie was always so full of life, and she treated her body as her temple. Her relationship with God was never to waver, and her faith was an integral part of her cancer battle and her ultimate eternal healing through Him. She loved the outdoors, and enjoyed hiking and observing nature, particularly in the Appalachian Mountains and along the seashore; she also loved to dance, read, write, paint, laugh, and love.

Obituary published in  Elizabethton (TN) Star,  Johnson City (TN) Press, and  TimesDaily (Florence, AL),.

Please consider making a donation in Rosie's name

Rosie's family has designated Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy to receive donations in lieu of flowers from loved ones wishing to honor her memory. The Conservancy is dedicated to conserving the unique plant and animal habitat, clean water, farmland, scenic beauty, and places for all people to enjoy outdoor recreation in the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee.

Please visit www.appalachian.org or call 1-828-253-0095 to donate.