Rosa Lee Averitt Clark Higgins, aged 76, passed away peacefully at her home in Cleveland, TN, surrounded by her loving family on April 5, 2025. Born on August 26, 1948, in Pine Hill, AL, to Richard and Evelyn Averitt, Rosa lived a life filled with love, kindness, and devotion.

A 1966 graduate of Pine Hill High School, Rosa was known as a 'second mom and nana' to many, offering a listening ear and a heart full of compassion. She worked as a substitute teacher at Benton Elementary and Polk County High School, leaving a lasting impact on countless students. Rosa also became a cherished part of the community through her work at Higgins Funeral Home.

In retirement, Rosa found joy in being 'Nana' to her grandson, Larkin, attending his school events and volunteering at Tennessee Christian Preparatory School and the Ocoee Middle School Football Program. Her dedication to the Walker Valley Football Program was recognized during the 2024 playoff season, where the team wore purple ribbons in her honor.

Rosa's warmth extended to her kitchen, where her famous pound cakes, coconut pies, and molasses cookies became symbols of her love and care. Her kindness and generosity touched many lives.

Rosa was preceded in death by her parents, her infant son Michael Alan Clark, her first husband Paul Clark, her second husband Neil Higgins, and her siblings Barbara Owen, Nell Autrey, Ralph Averitt, and Johnny Averitt. She is survived by her daughter Paula Clark and grandson Larkin Lewis, both of Cleveland, TN, as well as her siblings Joan Averitt, Louise Moore, Della Haynes, Mary Ann Bellcase, Patricia Green, and Billy Averitt, along with many nieces, nephews, and beloved Clark in-laws.

A graveside service to celebrate Rosa's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Benton Memorial Gardens, officiated by her nephew Bart Borden, with Valanna White and Vanessa Spotts singing.