01/12/2026
Rose St. Phillips Bevacqua, 104, formerly of Fulton, New York, passed on January 1, 2026 in the Florida home of her eldest son James, as was her wish. She was born in Fulton in 1921 to Alfred and Laura (Abbatecola) St. Phillips on Hart Street, where her father had a bakery and a nearby grocery store. A graduate of Fulton High School’s Class of 1940, she had been active in girl’s field hockey, the Mermaid’s swimming group, dramatics club, and tap dancing. At Nestles during WWII she made “Army bars.” In 1947 she married local crooner Anthony “Tony” Bevacqua, and they had four children. A rewarding teacher’s aide career at Oak Street School was capped with a memorable retirement ceremony attended by all nine of her siblings. She had many friends during an independent sojourn in Port Angeles, Washington, and dutifully volunteered at the Clallam County Commissioner’s Office. In 2005 she moved to Florida, where she became a popular and beloved figure at Pine Run Estates in Ocala. Well into her 90’s she participated and even placed in senior games, regularly attended physical fitness class, bingo nights, Crafters & Quilters, Red Hatters, dances, and holiday parties. At home she crafted gifts for others, including greeting cards, jewelry, paper art, and bead work. Although her children were foremost, Rose was a mother, teacher, and giver to all, deserving of her internet username, “Saint Rosa Bella.” She is survived by her children Charlene Bryant, James Bevacqua, Jerry (Sue) Bevacqua, and Anthony Bevacqua; siblings Joe St. Phillips, Tony St. Phillips, Jean Feeney, Carm Warner and Marie Pinch; and her grandchildren, Richard and Laura Bevacqua of Hawaii. Per her wishes, there will be no calling hours. Funeral services at Holy Trinity Church and burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery will both take place in the spring. The arrangements are in the care of the Sugar Funeral Home Inc., 224 W. 2nd. St. S., Fulton.
