With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Rosa Sabtu Taitano, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother sister, and friend, who left this world peacefully at her home in Huntsville, AL, on June 08, 2025, at the age of 73. Rosa was born on December 17, 1951, in Saipan, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, to Policarpio Quitano Taitano and Consolacion Sabtu Taitano, who both preceded her in death.
Rosa’s life was a tapestry woven with love, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. She attended Marianas High School, where she laid the foundation for a life dedicated to nurturing and supporting those around her. Rosa’s journey took her far from her island home, but her heart remained anchored in love of her family and the values instilled in her from an early age.
Rosa is preceded in death by her parents, Policarpio and Consolacion, and her siblings – brothers, Jose, Jesus, Juan, and Crispin Taitano; as well as sisters, Susana T. Tereyama and Maria S. Taitano. She was also preceded in death by her brother-in-laws, Russell Demola, Rafael Tereyama, Danilo Catigan; and sister-in-law, Feng Lan Pang Taitano. The loss of her beloved granddaughter, Nasha Marie T. Dela Cruz will forever leave a void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Rosa’s legacy continues through her children, who were her pride and joy. She is survived by Vicki M. & Donald L. Allgood III (Donjana), RoseAnn & William Guevarra (Sharlene, Selena, William), Sandra T. Dela Cruz & Wayne Lizama (+ Nasha, Junora, Mercede, Renandra, Reanna, Wayomi, Wayan, Wayne Jr,, Rosa, Zyrese), John T. Dela Cruz & Jormalou Tamonte (Jonalyn, Jhomari, Jessilyn, Jaerissa, Zylene, Kyle, Xavier), Connie & Johnny Ontiveros (Lizann, Austin, Alonie, Donald, Victoria, Antonio, Jorge, Santina), Antonio Jr. T. Dela Cruz & Francine Perez (Austin, Maria), Robert T. Dela Cruz & Rowena Cabrera (Kiana, Ryan, Robert, Jr.), Mariano T. Dela Cruz, and Randy T. Dela Cruz.
Rosa was also blessed with a large and loving extended family, including her sisters, Dolores Catigan, Trinidad Demola, and Teresa Sagpao, as well as her cherished godchildren, Roy Tereyama and Tina Palacios. She leaves behind 23 great-grandchildren, numerous cousins, nephews, nieces, relatives, and friends whose lives she touched in profound ways.
Rosa was a beacon of strength and kindness, always ready with a smile and a comforting word. Her laughter and warmth will be sorely missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She taught us the importance of family, love, and perseverance, leaving behind a legacy of compassion that will resonate for generations to come.
A private memorial service will be held in her honor, celebrating the beautiful life she led and the love she shared. While our hearts ache in her absence, we take solace in knowing that Rosa is now reunited with her loved ones, watching over us from above.
Rest in peace, mom. You will be greatly missed and forever in our hearts.
