Rose Gualtieri

Rosie “Blue Eyes” (Barrels) Gualtieri December 6, 2025

Rose (Franco) Gualtieri, age 86, beloved wife of the late Anthony “Dukie” Gualtieri. Devoted mother of Anthony (Donna), Peter (Lisa), John (Donna) and Christopher. Cherished grandmother of Pamela DeRose (Michael), Michelle Bailey (Chris), Gina Marie Krol (Matt), Peter A. Gualtieri, Michael J. Gualtieri (Kate), Anthony J. Gualtieri, Thomas Gualtieri and Michael C. Gualtieri. Loving great-grandmother of Zachary Bailey, Lillianna DeRose, Giavanna DeRose, Zoey Bailey, Olivia Krol, Thomas M. Gualtieri, Ava Gualtieri, Eliana Krol and Mackenzie Krol.

Daughter of the late Johnny “Barrels” and Jennie Franco, Rosie was predeceased by her brother Joseph. She is survived by her brothers John (Marie), Thomas (late Marie), Michael (Lorraine), and her sister Carmella Moyer (late Harold). She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Born and raised in South Philadelphia, Rosie began working in her father’s bar and restaurant, Johnny Barrels Café. With a natural entrepreneurial spirit, she later opened Rosie’s Pizzeria, where her signature square pizza became a local favorite. After her father’s passing, she relocated to the Jersey Shore area, working in the casinos before once again pursuing her passion for business. In the early 1990s, she opened Barrels at the Shore, which proudly celebrates 32 years in operation.

Rosie was known for her exceptional cooking talents and was the recipient of multiple awards for her homemade soups and meatballs. Her warm personality, strong work ethic, and love of family made her a cherished presence in every community she touched.

Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects and celebrate her life at a viewing on Friday from 8:30 AM to 10:15 AM at St. Monica’s Church, 2422 S. 17th Street, Philadelphia, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM. A luncheon will take place Immediately following the mass at Popi’s Restaurant, 3120 S. 20th Street. In lieu of flowers family request donations be made in her memory to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org