Rosalyn Jane (Williams) Agbodoe

Rosalyn Jane (Williams) Agbodoe  was called home to her heavenly father on Sunday, August 25th 2024.  Roz led an active and vibrant life despite battling illness for the past

several years.  She was the daughter of Jane Bannister Harris and Julius Harris.  She was born in New Haven, CT on January 18, 1946.  Rosalyn was predeceased by her parents, her older brother Charles Williams and younger brother, Julian “Mitch” Harris.  She was also predeceased by the love of her life, her beloved son, Jason Jamal Mann and beloved nephew, Philip Jaamal Evans.

Rosalyn was educated in New Haven public schools and was a proud graduate of Hillhouse H.S. class of ’63, from which she continued to maintain close friendships over the years. She went on to complete her Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Northeastern University and a Master’s in  Counseling Education from Boston University. Rosalyn lived in Boston, MA for 17 years. During that period, she had a successful career as a Probation Officer for the city of Boston.  After returning to CT, Roz held professional positions in Human resources, employment training and development, Parent Training Groups and Lead Parent Resource Specialist; she was a clinic and school based mental health provider for the Clifford Beers Community Care Center and other community based organizations including the Urban League.

Some of Roz’s passions included cooking and hosting dinners for family and friends, bargain shopping (Goodwill), attending church, Bible Study and Sunday School and her Book Club. Roz loved to laugh, entertain and spend time with her grandchildren. She always assisted her family and friends with whatever they needed when she could. She played a key role in executing the annual Bannister Family Picnic each year.  Her broad musical interests included Jazz, Gospel, R&B and Pop. She enjoyed attending concerts in MD, the Berkshires and the casinos in Connecticut.  She always supported Black Heritage organizations and programs in New Haven and Hamden.

Rosalyn could be counted on to make sure she celebrated her birthday every year with her special first cousins (the FCC’s), the first cousins club.  She especially liked eating out and knew all the best places.  She had a unique fashion sense and always showed up in style and sophistication. A trip to Ghana, many years ago has continued to influence many of her fashion choices.  Rosalyn has always loved  bright, colorful attire.

Roz leaves behind to cherish her memory, her brother Kevin Harris of New Haven, her sister Minnie Evans and brother-in-law Phillip Evans. Sister in law, Lynda, Grandchildren, Jason R. Mann of New Jersey, Jaqueena Rosalyn Jones and Antoine Jones, both of New Haven and great granddaughter Passion Mann of New Jersey.  Nieces and nephews, Julien (Jay), Brandon, Michelle,  Marquis, Daysia, Shawn and Shadae, stepson, Reuben Scott Porcher, and nine great nieces and nephews, her devoted and loving companion, Don Hardy and many special and beloved cousins, friends and former colleagues.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024 in Varick Memorial AME Zion Church, 242 Dixwell Avenue, New Haven at 12:30pm. Condolence may be expressed at www.colonialfunerals.com.