With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of Rosa Mae Burgess, 67, wife of Tony Colson, of Lynchburg, SC, who passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

Life Reflections

"Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. I go to prepare a place for you."

A Life Begins

God Almighty, in His infinite wisdom and divine providence, called His servant, Mrs. Rosa Mae Burgess, from her earthly labors to her eternal home on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. Surrounded by her loving family in Lynchburg, South Carolina, she peacefully transitioned after a courageous battle with cancer.

Mrs. Rosa Mae Burgess was born on December 6, 1958, in Florence County, South Carolina. She was the beloved daughter of Stella Rea Gardner and the late Bobby Young. She was also lovingly raised by the late Johnny "Boot" Gardner. Rosa Mae was preceded in death by a sister, Linda Gail Jackson and two brothers, Charles "Boot" Gardner and Willie "Pop" Burgess.

She received her formal education in the public schools of Florence County, attending school in the Olanta community. Rosa Mae faithfully served as Shift Manager at the Knights Inn in Lumberton, North Carolina, for over 20 years. She was a devoted member of Mt. Zion Freewill Baptist Church in Olanta, South Carolina.

Mrs. Rosa Mae Burgess leaves to cherish her precious memories: her devoted husband of 25 years, Tony Colson of Lumberton, North Carolina; two daughters, Elaine (Kenyatta) Green of Lynchburg, South Carolina, and Kim Burgess of Lumberton, North Carolina; her beloved granddaughter, Navaeah Burgess, whom she lovingly raised as her own daughter; her six stepsons; Tony Colson, Robert "Smith" Colson, Jeremiah Colson, Devon Colson, Marcus Colson and Tony "Shoes" Colson, all of Lumberton, North Carolina; five cherished grandchildren, Skylar Burgess, Emiras Burgess, Jakayla Green, Jaquez Green, and Jamori Green all of Lynchburg SC; her loving mother, Stella Rea Gardner of Olanta, South Carolina; four brothers, Johnny (Shalanda Regin) Gardner, Jr., Pastor Bobby Young, Jr., John Young, and Anthony Young, all of South Carolina; five sisters, Barbara Myers, Alisha Epps, Lori G. Smith, Sherrie Paige Harrison, and Francelia Young, all of SC; four aunts, Nedian McDowell, Barbara McElveen, Annette Nero, and Delphine Gardner; a special niece, Patricia (Samuel) Sampson; two special nephews, Timothy (Christina) Gardner and Craeshawn Epps; her beloved fur companion, Snowball Burgess; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends.

Rosa Mae's memory will also be cherished by her extended church family at Mt. Zion Freewill Baptist Church and all whose lives were touched by her kindness, strength, and love.

A Journey Ends

All arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of Lake City, SC. 843-354-2292.