Rosalyn Jalperya Howard was born Sunday, October 12, 1952 to Johnnie Jay and Helen Howard in Winston-Salem, NC. As indicated in the record of her formative years, the essence of her childhood was spent matriculating through the Winston-Salem Forsyth County School System, beginning at Brown Elementary, Kennedy Junior High School and ultimately graduating from the Illustrious Atkins Senior High School, where she was a majorette for the "Mighty Mighty" Camels, class of 1970.

After graduating, she moved to Washington DC where she majored in Business at Federal City College. On her return to Winston-Salem, she was employed by AT&T and was a receptionist for the Winston Salem Housing Authority. Rosalyn also was an entrepreneur, owning a flower shop, seafood carryout and a sweet shop with her sister. In addition, she also sold insurance and was a cosmetologist. In 2016, she received a BA in Theology from Apex School of Theology.

Rosalyn began her spiritual journey at Mt. Zion Baptist Church and continued in her faith as a member of Union Baptist Church where she served in the capacity of a church greeter, member of the choir, while working on the Finance committee. Her truest devotion was rooted and grounded in serving the Lord.

She never hesitated to witness about the love of Jesus Christ and His sovereign power.

As the origin of her name, Rosalyn means "tender, little Rose" and she was just that. She was absolutely beautiful, inside and out. Rosalyn had an impeccable style, and she COULD NOT be out dressed. Her class and grace radiated not just to her close circle, but expanded to the city she lived, loved, and served... AND she could cook! Her culinary skills were unmatched and her fish fry's and crab boils were an event. Rosalyn was the brightest star in our galaxy and her light will shine in our hearts forever.

Rosalyn was immensely loved and cherished by her family. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Gaddy Little Sr.; aunt, Ann Hairston; and niece, Charnetha Kimbrough.

She leaves to rejoice in her memory, four grandchildren whom she adored, Azariah, Isaiah, Liam and Ethan; four sisters, Brenda (Butch) Evans, Arnetha Kimbrough of the city, Nancy (Terence) Henderson of DeSoto, TX and Phyllis Howard of McKinney, TX; and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins and friends.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 6:00pm Friday, March 12, 2021 at Russell Funeral Home.

Private funeral services will be held Saturday, March 13, 2021. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery.