Rosanna York

To know Rosanna York is to be embraced by a victor of joy through all circumstance. An abstrusely humorous, yet, exact truth-teller–she possessed a charm and wit, that defined her presence, and will be sorely missed in her absence. Rosanna transitioned into a new, and everlasting life on August 08, 2025. Her loving, and determinable spirit was witnessed by all, until the very moment she was called to rest in the Lord’s eternal peace. One of twelve children, Rosanna was born to Queen Esther (Edmonds) White, and Cephus, Sr., on February 23, 1935. Originally from Scotland Neck, North Carolina, Rosanna’s early life was primarily spent in Washington D.C, where the White family would create their forever home. Rosanna had a dream, and all the makings of a great novelist, as an ardent reader, wordsmith with deft typing skills. Still, it was a love story that lead her to both the devotion of her five children, and loving, 58-year-long marriage to Willie York, Sr., alongside a tenured and fulfilling career at the Federal Maritime Commission. Settled in Southeast, Rosanna and Willie’s home was a bastion of celebration, a rest haven for visitors, and a touchstone for every branch of their family. Vacations and annual road trips to Florida and South Carolina were a hallmark of the York clan, ensuring her bevy of grandchildren had special memories of idyllic summers with their grandparents. Rosanna’s matriarchal role was deeply reflected in her service to others. A member of Mentrotone Baptist Church, she served proudly as a deaconess for over a decade, and cherished her years of fellowship in weekly bible study, and as a member of the Mentrotone Women’s Choir. Having “Rose” as a friend, meant that you gained a formidable, lifelong champion. From her cohort of Iverson Mall Walkers, to her downtown colleagues, and seamstresses circle, she was known for her firm kindness, sometimes mischief, but most often laughter. Rosanna enters heavenly peace with her husband, Willie, Sr.; her youngest daughter, Donna and eldest son, Willie, Jr.; parents and siblings: Thurman, Sr., Mable White Dathan, Mary Maxine Outz, and Leon. Her legacy is carried on in the hearts and lives of her daughter, Toya Dover; her sons, Larry (Wanda), and Kelvin (Patrice); her eight grandchildren: Kaseem, Maya, Jamal, Christopher, Erika, Jasmine, Brittany, and Jaeda; her twelve great-grandchildren: Misa, Kamylah, Aaliyah, Gianna, Jeremiah, Native, July, Truce, Khari, Nova, Nyeem and Noah; her sister, Meretha Taylor; and her brothers, Cephus, Jr., Andrew, Sr., (Marvel), Keidth (Lillie), Vernon, William (Judith), and Norris; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, many loving relatives and friends. Rosanna’s life undoubtedly blessed those that knew her. Our enduring memories of her smile, warmth, hilarity, love and laughter will always remain. February 23, 1935 - August 08, 2025. Visitation will be held on September 19th, 2025 from 10am until time of service at Mentrotone Baptist church. Interment to Follow with her husband at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery at 1pm.

Rosanna York

February 23, 1935 - August 8, 2025