In Loving Memory of Ethan Rose
Beloved Son, Friend, and Student of Southern Local High School, Ohio
October 28, 2007 – June 3, 2025

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of Ethan Rose, a cherished young man from Southern Local, Ohio, who was taken from this world far too soon. Ethan died in a devastating car accident on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at just 17 years old, leaving behind a community stunned by grief and enveloped in sorrow.

Ethan was a student at Southern Local High School, where he was well-known for his kind heart, vibrant personality, and unshakable loyalty to his friends and family. With dreams as big as his smile, Ethan had a natural charisma that drew people to him. His energy, his laughter, and his zest for life made him the kind of person everyone wanted to be around. Whether he was cracking jokes in the hallways, helping classmates with schoolwork, or cheering on the Southern Local Indians at Friday night football games, Ethan brought warmth and light to every corner of the school.

Born on October 28, 2007, Ethan was the beloved son of Mark and Jennifer Rose and a caring older brother to his younger sister, Lily. He was the kind of big brother who never hesitated to stand up for her, walk her home from school, or make her laugh when she was having a tough day. His family was his world, and he often expressed how grateful he was for their love, support, and sacrifices.

Outside of school, Ethan loved working on cars with his dad, fishing in the nearby creeks, skateboarding through town, and playing pickup basketball with friends. He had recently gotten his driver’s license, a milestone that filled him with pride and a new sense of independence. Tragically, that same independence led to the accident that took his life—an unspeakable loss that has sent ripples of heartbreak through his family, classmates, teachers, and the wider community.

Ethan was also known for his creative spirit. Whether it was through photography, sketching in the margins of his notebooks, or editing videos of his adventures with friends, he had a way of capturing the beauty in everyday life. He often spoke about pursuing a future in graphic design or digital media, combining his artistic flair with his love for technology.

In the days following his passing, friends and classmates have come together to share stories, hold vigils, and leave heartfelt notes, flowers, and memorabilia at a makeshift memorial near the crash site. Their messages reflect a common theme: Ethan was not just liked—he was loved, and his absence leaves an unfillable void in the hearts of those who knew him.

Ethan’s teachers describe him as curious and full of potential. Though he faced challenges like any teenager, he always showed resilience, hope, and a willingness to grow. He had recently expressed interest in attending trade school and wanted to work with his hands—possibly following in his grandfather’s footsteps as a mechanic. He wasn’t sure exactly where life would take him, but he was excited to find out.

He is survived by his parents, Mark and Jennifer Rose; his sister, Lily Rose; his grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, and many friends and teachers who will forever carry his memory. Though his time with us was painfully short, Ethan made an indelible impact on everyone fortunate enough to cross paths with him.

A memorial service for Ethan will be held at Southern Local High School’s gymnasium on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 2 p.m., followed by a candlelight vigil on the football field at dusk. The Rose family welcomes the community to come together to honor Ethan’s life and to find comfort in shared love and remembrance. Attendees are encouraged to wear green—Ethan’s favorite color—and bring a photo or a written memory to contribute to a memory wall that will be gifted to the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ethan Rose Memorial Scholarship Fund, which will support students pursuing creative or technical education after high school—a small way to keep Ethan’s dreams alive and help others achieve what he never got the chance to.

Ethan Rose was a light in this world. Though that light has dimmed far too soon, its glow will live on in every story, every memory, and every life he touched.

Rest in peace, Ethan. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.