Debbie Rose: A 31-year Journey at St. Mary’s Health Comes to an End

For over three decades, Debbie Rose has been a familiar and beloved presence at SMH, devoting 31 years to the community she cherishes. The oldest of six siblings, Debbie grew up with two sisters and three brothers, and her nurturing nature extended beyond her family to everyone she worked with.
Her career began humbly in housekeeping, where she spent two years cleaning rooms and tending to the hospital’s needs. However, Debbie felt called to do more. The idea of becoming a CNA seemed exciting, so she took the leap and enrolled in a class in Grangeville. For the next two years, she balanced both roles: cleaning and caring for patients. Eventually, she focused entirely on being a CNA, a job she found both fun and fulfilling, and continued in that role for five years.
Her passion for caring came from more than just her CNA training—it was personal. Debbie had the joy of working alongside her mother, Marilyn, a nurse at the same hospital. The chance to share that special bond at work was something she deeply valued.
But after her time as a CNA, Debbie returned to housekeeping, where she found a different kind of reward. She reflects on how much has changed over the years: the hospital itself, with numerous remodels and staff rotations, and the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare. Housekeeping, in her words, is a tough department, with high turnover and the constant need for new hands. Despite the challenges, Debbie always saw her job as a second family. “Everyone is always very genuine,” she says, reflecting on the deep connections she’s formed over the years.
Debbie’s career wasn’t just about work; it was about growth. She recalls how, early in her marriage to Mike Rose—her husband of 44 years—she was a stay-at-home mom to their three boys: Shawn (married to Cami), Jason (married to Amy), and Kyle (engaged to Ashlee). Raising a family on one income was tough, but when the opportunity to work at SMH came up, Mike encouraged her to take it, and together they made it work. The couple has five grandchildren now: Jacelynn, Gage, and Zoe from Shawn’s family, and Ryker and Stella from Jason’s.
Looking ahead, Debbie and Mike are planning to retire at the same time. Their plans? To travel, camp, fish, and visit family in other states. Though she’s excited for the next chapter, Debbie knows she’ll miss the people the most. “It’s been like working with a second family,” she says, her gratitude evident for the friendships and memories she’s made.
Throughout her time at SMH, Debbie’s kindness, humor, and unwavering dedication have touched the lives of her coworkers and patients alike. Her work, whether cleaning or caregiving, has always been driven by love—for her family, her colleagues, and the community. Debbie’s retirement marks the end of an era, but her impact will linger long after she steps away.