Rovela Crooks-Hess

Rovela Katherine Jane was born in Sonora, CA, on January 3, 1963. She was the firstborn of five children. At a young age, she stepped up to help her mother care for her siblings; her unconditional love, nurturing warmth, and protective guidance made her a second mother to them. It created an unbreakable bond felt not only by them, but one she carried throughout her life and shared with her entire family.

She found faith as a Jehovah's Witness early in life, a constant that brought her a deeply structured life centered around Bible study, hope for a future in an earthly paradise, and support from a worldwide family. Her most recent congregation in Cleveland, OH, embraced her, bringing her a peace and happiness that stayed with her until her passing.

 

Rovela pursued many different occupations in her lifetime. She owned a kitchen and bath company with her first husband, worked in retail at the San Francisco Music Box Company, and served her community as a real estate agent. She even realized the dream of owning her own cafe. However, the occupation she took the most pride in was being a mother and grandparent. As a single mother for much of her children's lives, she worked incredibly hard to provide for her family, teaching them the value of resilience and devotion.

 

She loved spending time at the beach, being with her pups, or admiring nature and all its wonders. Flowers were her passion, especially peonies and daffodils. Above all else, she loved her family. "Sacrificial love" is how those close to her described her; she consistently put the needs of family and friends before her own. Her glowing personality and warm embrace were a constant comfort to everyone in her presence.

 

Rovela's love and memories live on through those that survive her: her son, Nathaniel Crooks; daughter, Andrea Harper; sister, Gennifer Montoya; brother, Joseph Huntley; granddaughter, Journey Viscarra; grandson, Paul Harper; and great-granddaughter, Scarlett Pietropinto, as well as their supportive families and her many dear friends.

 

Rovela passed on March 27, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio, surrounded by her family.