MSG Pedro A. Rosario Zayas, US Army (Ret.)

MSG Pedro A. Rosario Zayas, U.S. Army (Ret.), 89, of Columbia, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 8, 2026, after an extended illness, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Caguas, Puerto Rico, on October 19, 1936, he was the son of the late Serafín Rosario Delfaus and Benita Rosario Zayas. MSG Rosario proudly and honorably served his country for more than 22 years in the United States Army. His distinguished military career included service as an Infantry Soldier, Drill Sergeant, and Senior Staff and Command Noncommissioned Officer. He completed two combat tours during the Vietnam War and received numerous awards and commendations, including seven Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Air Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal. He retired honorably from military service in 1977. Following his Army retirement, MSG Rosario began a second career with the United States Postal Service in Columbia, South Carolina, where he worked faithfully for over 20 years. Above all, Pedro was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather. He was known for his infectious smile, quick wit, kind and gentle spirit, and unwavering willingness to help others in times of need. His love for his family was immense, and he was always ready with advice, encouragement, and reassurance. Affectionately known as Papa, Pop, Bedo, and Ito, he never failed to respond with his trademark smile and the words, “Yeah, babe.” A true handyman extraordinaire, Pedro was the family’s legendary DIY expert, tackling projects of every size with enthusiasm and skill. He especially enjoyed woodworking and built playhouses for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren—many of which still stand today as lasting reminders of his love. He cherished the outdoors and had a lifelong passion for fishing, never missing an opportunity to cast a line. A devoted animal lover, he treated all of his dogs as cherished family members. He was also an avid baseball fan and proudly cheered for the Atlanta Braves, affectionately calling them “Los Bravos.” Pedro shared 65 wonderful years of marriage with his one true love, Gloria. His family finds comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with his beloved wife and loving son, Edgar Rosario. Survivors include his sons, Jorge D. Rosario (Sandi) and Pedro L. Rosario (Cathy); grandchildren, Ashley R. Martin (Chris), Alyssa N. Rosario, Peter Nicholas Rosario (Rachel), Andrew B. Rosario, Christopher T. Rosario (Adrienne), and David C. Rosario (Brea); fourteen great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria E. Garcia Rosario; his son, Edgar Rosario; and his brother, Wilfredo S. Rosario Zayas. The funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, January 26, at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Extension, Columbia. Burial with full military honors will follow at Fort Jackson National Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 25, at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be grandsons Christopher Rosario, David Cale Rosario, Peter Nicholas Rosario, and Andrew Rosario, and great-grandsons Javier Rosario and Silas Martin. Memorials may be made to Pawmetto Lifeline, 1275 Bower Parkway, Columbia, SC 29212.

Tributes

MSG Pedro A. Rosario Zayas, US Army (Ret.)

October 19, 1936 - January 8, 2026