Rosanna Barefoot Ezzell, 83, of Whiteville, North Carolina, passed away on April 11, 2026.

Born on December 11, 1942, she was the daughter of Willard U. Barefoot and Clara G. Barefoot.

Rosanna graduated from Hallsboro High School. She went on to receive her bachelor’s degree in business education from High Point University and her Master of Education from the University of South Carolina. She also received her certification as a Master Gardener and was especially passionate about her rose garden.

Rosanna dedicated her life to education, serving as a teacher at Whiteville City High School, West Columbus High School, Hallsboro High School, Hallsboro Middle School, and Acme Delco Middle School. Throughout her career, she touched countless lives and was deeply respected for her commitment to her students and her profession. Her passion for extracurricular activities included serving as a Cheerleader Sponsor and FBLA Sponsor, where she mentored and inspired many students beyond the classroom.

She was a devoted member of Pleasant Plains Baptist Church, where she served on numerous committees, taught Sunday School classes, and sang in the choir. She dedicated her time and energy to the betterment of her church and was deeply rooted in her faith.

Rosanna was also a member of Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority and a lifelong member of the Whiteville Women’s Civic League, where she served as President for eight years, contributing greatly to her community through leadership and service.

She was a strong woman with an impeccable heart and beauty, both inside and out. Those who knew her well understood her truly kind and loving nature. Her family and community will greatly miss her spirit, tenacity, generosity, leadership, wisdom, and unmistakable touch of class.

Rosanna found great joy in spending time with her family and church family, and she was passionate about giving back to her community.

She is survived by her loving husband, Robert L. Ezzell; her sons, Robert L. Ezzell II (Debbie) and Derek U. Ezzell (Sharon); and her cherished grandchildren, Clara Jordan Fussell (Graham), Logan Alicia Chappell (Collin), John Patrick Ezzell, and William Maxwell Ezzell. She is also survived by her sisters, Sara Kathryn Thompson (John), Martha Jane Senter (Fred), and Mary Alice Stanley; her sister-in-law, Donna Barefoot; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willard U. Barefoot and Clara G. Barefoot, and her brothers, Douglas Barefoot and Thurston Barefoot.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Laura Senter, Kandle Rogers, and the staff of Liberty Hospice for their compassionate care and support.

Funeral will be at Pleasant Plains Baptist Church on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at 2:00 pm with Dr. Dave Heller and Rev. Joshua Connor officiating, visitation will be 1 hour prior to the funeral.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Pleasant Plains Baptist Church, 31 Pleasant Plains Church Rd., Whiteville, NC 28472

Her memory will live on in the many lives she influenced and the love she shared so freely.

 

Online Condolences may be made at www.peacockfuneralhome.net