Othene (Rose) Haggerty

Othene Rose Haggerty was born on August 14, 1933, in Karnack, Texas. She transitioned to eternal rest with her Lord on October 11, 2020, in Dallas, Texas.

Our beloved Othene Rose Haggerty was born to the parentage of the late Walter Rose and Ada Williams Rose. She received her formal education in Karnack, Texas, at George Washington Carver High School, graduating with the Class of 1949 at the age of 16 as Salutatorian. She went on to earn a bachelor ’s degree in Education from Wiley College in Marshall, Texas. She later attended North Texas State University, now named the University of North Texas, where she earned a master ’s degree in Elementary Education. Othene was employed by the Dallas Independent School District for 36 years. During her time with the district, she served as a teacher, facilitator in the East Oak Cliff Subdivision of DISD, and Administrative Intern. As chairperson of the reading department at Thomas Marsh Middle School, she was selected as Middle School Teacher of the Year by the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce in 1993. She believed that every child can and will learn if provided the appropriate environment and instruction. Othene was proud to lead the implementation of oratorical contests at several schools during her tenure in education. After 36 years of dedicated service, Othene retired in 1995. With a love for teaching children, she returned to the classroom as a substitute teacher in 1997 and continued her passion to educate and inspire young people until 2013. She later received a plaque of recognition from President Obama for her many years of devotion and service as an educator.

Othene was a devoted member of New Mt. Zion Baptist Church where she labored under the leadership of the late Dr. R.E. Price, Sr. and Dr. Tommy L. Brown for 48 years. She served in many roles and was a faithful Sunday School participant and a greeter during worship services. As an educator, one of her greatest joys was her early work on the New Mt. Zion Scholarship Fund Committee.

A former member of the National Council of Negro Women, Othene was an inspirational, conscientious, and generous woman. She raised her family with principles of discipline and Christian values. As the oldest girl in a family of eight children, she always remembered what her father taught her and her siblings, “take care of one another.” With family always a priority, she availed herself to assist family members and others whenever there was a need. Although her accomplishments were many, she was most proud of her family and teaching career which allowed her to inspire young people to be their best and excel.

Othene was predeceased by her parents; husband of 48 years, Dan Haggerty; and brothers, Ernest Rose and Odell Rose.

Those left to cherish precious memories include her children: Pamela Maxwell (Bertrand), Kenneth Haggerty (Glenda), and Byron Haggerty (Beanist); seven grandchildren: Kenneth Bernard Haggerty, Patrick Duane Haggerty, Chelsea Breanna Maxwell, Amber Nicole Haggerty, Olivia Brianna Haggerty, Cameron Bertrand Maxwell, and Bryton Christopher Haggerty; one great-grandchild, Cayson Jamahl Calloway; brothers, Willie Rose and James Rose; sisters: Vernell Collier, Bettye Horace, and Dr. Myrtle Rose; cherished friend, Ruby Mondy; dear friends in the Senior Saints Ministry; and a host of other relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please kindly consider clicking the link below to make a memorial contribution to the New Mount Zion Scholarship Fund in Othene's honor. 

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