Rosemary Layne Mosley

Rosemary Layne Harris Mosley, age 85, departed this life peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on Tuesday, April 14th, 2026, in Indianapolis, IN. She was born on February 19th, 1941, to Alphonso Harris and Lizzie Mae Nelms.

Rosemary was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and a loving friend to many. She accepted Christ at an early age and remained a faithful “Servant of God” throughout her life.

Affectionately known as “Rose” to many, she met Lorenzo Curtis Mosley after graduating from Frederick Douglass High School in Pittsburg, Texas and the two were married shortly thereafter.

Rosemary lived a dynamic and accomplished life. She served as a military nurse at the VA Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana; she was also employed with General Electric. Rosemary later traveled as an “Ikette”, performing with Ike & Tina Turner during the late 1960’s and 1970’s. Upon returning home, she began working for the City of Fort Wayne.

In 1973, Rosemary made history! Rosemary became the first African American female police officer on the Fort Wayne Police Department. Known fondly as “Rosie” and “Mama Mosley,” she served with distinction until her retirement in April 1997.

A woman of deep faith and talent, Rosemary formed a gospel trio with Joann Dunson and Mary Wright. Together they traveled throughout Indiana, ministering through song at churches and community events. Rosemary was an active member of Turner Chapel AME Church and remained deeply involved in the community.

Rosemary was also an entrepreneur, owning and operating “Rose Petals Boutique”, known for its unique clothing, hats, shoes, and jewelry. She had a remarkable sense of style and carried herself with grace and elegance. Above all, she dedicated her life to caring for her family, uplifting others, and empowering women.

Rosemary found joy in singing, dancing, traveling, watching cooking shows, and cheering on her beloved Indiana Pacers. She also enjoyed watching Steve Harvey’s Family Feud. Most importantly, she treasured every moment spent with her family and close friends.

Rosemary was preceded in death by:

Fort Wayne, Indiana: Her husband, Lorenzo Mosley; father, Alphonso Harris; stepmother, Florence Harris; sister, Francine Renee Harris; niece, Deon Renee Williams; and grandson, Jamarcus Lechon Mosley-Jordan.

Pittsburg, Texas: Her mother, Lizzie Mae Nelms; stepfather, Adolphus L. Nelms, Sr.; sisters, Trina Nadine Nelms and Tonia Nanette Nelms-Harper.

Rosemary leaves to cherish her loving memory:

Siblings: Stanley Harris (Leona) of Peoria, IL; Mary Nelms Boyd of Grand Prairie, TX; Adolphus L. Nelms, Jr., Sandra Nelms (Randy), and Rodney G. Nelms, all of Pittsburg, TX.

Children: Curtis A. Mosley (Atlanta, GA); Jennifer R. Mosley (Indianapolis, IN); and Gentry T. Mosley (Tyshanna) (Atlanta, GA).

Grandchildren: Jeremy I. Mosley (Atlanta, GA); Jamaica L. Mosley Day (Larry) (Indianapolis, IN); Angela Spahiev (Fort Wayne, IN); Adria Spahiev (Fort Wayne, IN); Derrell McCurdy (Arizona); Jessica Clowers (Austin, TX); Gentry Mosley, Jr. (Atlanta, GA); Chanel Mosley (Atlanta, GA); Aubree Spahiev (Fort Wayne, IN); Danielle Mosley (Atlanta, GA); Ashley Mosley (Fort Wayne, IN); Andrew Mosley (Fort Wayne, IN); and Christian Lucas (Fort Wayne, IN).

Great-Grandchildren: Adarrio Harrison (Breanna); Amarrion Harrison (Dionjah); Adarius Mosley (Jordyn); Adarion Mosley (Khalijah), all of Indianapolis, IN; Mariah Neverdon; Angela “Mackenzie” Mosley; and Gentry Mosley III, all of Atlanta, GA; Amari J. King;

Aniyah J. King; Aaliyah J. King; Adrian Spahiev; and Mariah Wooten, all of Fort Wayne, IN.

Great-Great-Grandchildren: Tay’Mirr Harrison, Adaviyon Harrison, Asani Harrison, Amani Harrison, Amouraa Mosley, Amyri Mosley, and Aerius Mosley, all of Indianapolis.

Rosemary’s legacy of love, strength, faith, and service will live on in all who knew and loved her.

Funeral services in Ms. Mosley’s honor will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 11:00am with visitation one-hour prior from 10am-11am at Turner Chapel AME Church, 836 E. Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46803.

Private family burial will take place at a later time.

Reverend Samuel Sumner will be officiating the services.

Memorial donations may be directed to the family for final expenses.

Arrangements and care entrusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Fort Wayne, IN.