Rosemary Messersmith, 90, of Bentonville, Arkansas, passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2026. She was born February 12, 1936, in Northeast Corning (Adams County), Iowa, to the late Howard and Hazel Russell. Rosemary was a woman of remarkable talent and an unwavering servant’s heart.

A 1954 graduate of Corning High School, Rosemary continued her studies at Iowa State Teachers College—now the University of Northern Iowa—in Cedar Falls. Her career began in Iowa as a Home Economics teacher, a role that perfectly suited her natural inclination to care for others. She taught at both Adair High School and Stewart High School. After relocating to Arkansas in 1974, she continued her path of service through her work with the City of Rogers Courts and later as a retail professional. A natural nurturer, Rosemary also opened her heart and home to provide childcare, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of countless children. In her later years, she brought her characteristic warmth to the community through her work at Bonworth and finally as a beloved people greeter at Walmart, where she eventually retired.

Beyond her professional life, Rosemary’s greatest passions were the Order of the Eastern Star and her church, Oakley Chapel, now known as Grace Chapel. Her leadership and dedication were widely recognized, and she served the Order of the Eastern Star with distinction in many prestigious roles, including Worthy Grand Matron and Grand Secretary. As a longtime and active member of her church, she served in a variety of volunteer roles, most notably as a Sunday School teacher and choir member.

Despite her many community involvements, Rosemary’s greatest pride was her family. As the matriarch of five generations, she was the heartbeat of her home, modeling a legacy of love and dedication that will endure through her children, grandchildren, and beyond. Her life was truly a masterclass in community service and familial devotion. In addition to her parents, Rosemary was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 68 years, Donald Eugene Messersmith; four brothers, Robert Ray, James Edward, Theodore “Ted” Howard, and Boyd Alvin Russell; daughter-in-law, Debbie Messersmith; and great-grandsons, Juan Cruz and Adrian Manrriquez.

She is survived by three sons, Donald Messersmith Jr. and his wife, Debbie of Springdale, Arkansas, William Messersmith of Cave Springs, Arkansas and David Messersmith and his wife, Lisa of Rogers, Arkansas; nine grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren; along with many other beloved family members and friends.

A time of visitation will be Wednesday, April 1, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m. at Grace Chapel, 1801 S. Dixieland Road, Rogers, Arkansas. Funeral services will follow at 10:00 a.m. Following the service, interment will take place at Benton County Memorial Park, 3800 W. Walnut Street, Rogers, Arkansas.

Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Chapel, 1801 S. Dixieland Road, Rogers, Arkansas 72758.