Rosie “Rose” Mae Volentine Cranford, 90, fondly known as Mrs. Cranford, Aunt Rose, and Mamaw, passed away in her home on February 20 2026 in Ruston, La. Rose was born on November 30, 1935 in Brownsboro, Tx. to Perry and Elnora Volentine.
A 1953 Bienville High School graduate and lifelong basketball enthusiast, Rose cheered the Louisiana Tech Lady Techsters with season tickets alongside her husband, Malvin, especially during Kim Mulkey’s playing years. One of her deepest joys came from watching her two sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren play sports.
For nearly 37 years, she rose early to help Malvin run Cranford’s Grocery, showcasing her tireless work ethic. She proudly tended her yard and flowers, mowing with a push mower well into her later years. A talented seamstress, Rose crafted countless quilts and Christmas tree skirts for loved ones and gladly taught others her craft. In 1981, the addition of a large in-ground pool became a beloved community spot. Her open door welcomed all, and she loved seeing everyone enjoy time together. Halloween was a special holiday in her home filled with a joyful, never scary, open house with homemade soup, pizzas, and trick-or-treaters of all kinds.
Rose’s faith sustained her; she was a member of Southside Baptist Church, then attended both Temple and Life Church and later enjoyed services on TV and her iPad when attending in person became difficult.
Rose is proceeded in death by her parents, Perry and Elnora Volentine; her husbands, George T. “Malvin” Cranford and Glynn Hunt; her sisters, Jimmie (Tony) Jones and Doris (Woodard) Christian; sisters-in-law, Mandy Volentine and Artie Beth (Billy) Anderson; and brothers-in-law Ross Land and Harry Roberts.
She is survived by her sons, Steve Cranford and Mike (Dari) Cranford: grandchildren: Annie (Cade) Leggett, T.J. (Holli) Cranford, Natalee (Tristen) Bounds, Steven Cranford, Morgan (Michael) Mueller, Tanner Cranford, and Riley (Kenny) Piper; great-grandchildren: Lilley, Makenley, and Lawson Leggett, Treston and Trace Tucker, Emma and Thomas Cranford, Parker Bounds, Charlotte and Emmett Mueller, and Maisy Piper; brothers: Alton (Barbara) Volentine, Dale Volentine, and Phillip (Pam) Volentine; sisters: Nelda (John) Alexander, Gale Land, and Ruby (Donnie) Hodges; sister-in-law Becky Roberts; brother-in-law Jimmy (Linda) Cranford, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Above all, her family was her world, and she poured endless time and pride into them. Rose’s generous heart, warm hospitality, and boundless love touched everyone she met. Her beautiful smile and ready laugh will always be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.
Funeral services are scheduled for 10 AM, Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at Mineral Springs Baptist Church in Dubach, La. with Bro. Barry Joyner officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel funeral home. Visitation will be held from 5-7 PM, Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at Mineral Springs Baptist Church. To leave an online memorial message, please visit www.owensmemorialfuneralhome.com.
