Daughter of the late Pauline Smith and George Cole, Sharmaine was born on September 2, 1962, in Birmingham, England. She passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
Sharmaine was a remarkable woman—a beloved wife, treasured mother, devoted grandmother, and cherished friend. She grew up in England, where she attended Highgate Secondary School and Bourneville College, studying nursing and culinary arts. When she wasn’t babysitting or preparing delicious meals, Sharmaine enjoyed spending time with her older brother, cousins, and friends at reggae blues parties.
At 18, Sharmaine and her mother traveled to the United States in search of new opportunities and a chance to pursue her dreams. One of those dreams came true when she met Derek Rose, her beloved husband of 40 years. Both born in Birmingham, England, Sharmaine and Derek came to America seeking a brighter future—and found each other. Together, they built a beautiful legacy rooted in love and family.
Their union was blessed with three sons: Malcolm Rose, Nathaniel Rose, Tirrell Rose, and one grandson, Matthew Rose. Sharmaine cherished her family deeply and carried love in her heart for everyone near and far.
As the youngest child of Pauline Smith, Sharmaine is survived by her older siblings, Delva Simpson and Trevor Smith, and Orlanzo Cole, David Cole, and Winsome Cole. To those who loved her, she was known by many affectionate names: Auntie, Cuz, Shar Star, Mrs. Sharmaine, Sista Sharmaine, Sis, and so much more. She never hesitated to reach out late at night or send an uplifting message to brighten someone’s day.
Sharmaine had a fierce passion for her family, nursing, music, and faith. She could often be found in her kitchen, rocking to the music of her favorite reggae artists—especially Dennis Brown—while preparing delicious meals for family and friends. She also enjoyed late nights at galas and reggae parties with her husband and devoted herself to furthering her education and becoming a registered nurse.
For more than 30 years, Sharmaine provided exceptional care to countless patients at Westchester Square Hospital and through the Visiting Nurse Service. She fulfilled another dream when she became a Nurse Supervisor, serving and supporting patients and colleagues leaving the service after a disability. Her years of service brought her tremendous joy, pride, and purpose. She was a compassionate advocate who fought tirelessly to help people heal, recover, and overcome life’s obstacles.
Sharmaine’s resilience led her to pursue yet another dream: connecting people through music. After her nursing career, she returned to one of her original passions—reggae music and her love for Jamaica. Through her warmth and determination, she connected with artists, promoters, DJs, and musicians who shared her desire to spread music, love, and joy throughout the world while honoring the land they loved.
Sharmaine’s legacy will live on through her family, friends, patients, colleagues, and all those whose lives she touched.
