03/24/2025
Rose Mary Bellamy – CEO & Co-Founder, Grandpa Foods
Rose Mary Bellamy is the President and Co-Founder of Grandpa Foods, a company born from a heartfelt desire to create something extraordinary. A lifelong aversion to condiments paired with her husband’s passion for smoking meats led to a breakthrough: what if barbecue sauce could be crafted from an apple butter base? That moment of inspiration, rooted in nostalgic childhood memories of apple butter sandwiches, became the foundation of a growing brand.
To aspiring women entrepreneurs, Rose Mary offers clear advice: don’t procrastinate, don’t fear failure—just start. She encourages others to overcome fear, age, and self-doubt, and to lean on the wisdom, connections, and encouragement found along the way. Most importantly, she champions lifting others up, sharing knowledge, and mentoring those on their own entrepreneurial paths.
From responsibly sourcing ingredients to partnering with diverse suppliers and creators, the business reflects the family values on which it was built. Rose Mary and her team actively support local businesses, participate in community events, and use their platform to highlight underrepresented voices, such as through their Women’s History Month series.
If given the chance to dine with any woman in history, Rose Mary would choose Harriet Tubman. She admires Tubman’s unwavering courage, selflessness, and resilience—qualities that resonate deeply with her own journey. She would treasure the opportunity to hear Tubman’s firsthand accounts of strength, leadership, and justice in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Through Grandpa Foods, Rose Mary Bellamy has created more than a flavorful product line—she’s built a purpose-driven business that reflects her values, uplifts her community, and honors the legacy of those who inspire her.