The community came together in Lake Ridge to honor longtime crossing guard Elizabeth “Betsy” Rose.
Rose served as a crossing guard for the Prince William County Police Department for 26 years, and passed away several months ago after a battle with cancer.
According to the Prince William police, Betsy spent much of her time assigned to the crosswalk for Lake Ridge Elementary School at Mount Burnside Way and Hedges Run Drive.
To commemorate Rose’s service to the community and her passing, crossing guards, community members, and elected officials gathered to unveil a new street sign that was made in her honor. The sign reads, “Cross safely in memory of Betsy Rose”.
“Not only did she help thousands of children cross these streets safely, but her own children she helped across the street…we’re all here today in memory of Betsy Rose who obviously had many, many friends in this neighborhood,” said Supervisor Ruth Anderson.
“I know she would have had a big smile on her face if she were to walk up now and see this crowd out here honoring her,” said Supervisor John Jenkins.
Attendees and Rose’s daughter shared memories of their time with her as well.
“The Department will deeply miss her kindness, her professionalism, and her smiling face. Betsy truly loved being a Crossing Guard and having lasting interactions with the students, parents, and four-legged companions at her crossing. On February 1, Prince William County Executive Christopher Martino ordered all Prince William County Flags lowered to half-staff in memory of Crossing Guard Betsy Rose. Betsy was laid to rest today but her memory will live on in our hearts. Thank you, Betsy, for your service and dedication to our Prince William County community,” read a statement from the Prince William police.
