Rosalyn Jane (Williams) Agbodoe was called home to her heavenly father on Sunday, Aug. 25, 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 Jan. 18, 1946. Rosalyn was predeceased by her parents, her older brother Charles Williams and her 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. Roz lived in Boston, Mass. for 17 years. During that period, she had a successful career as a Probation Officer for the city of Boston.
After returning to CT to lovingly care for her adored mother, Roz dedicated her career to helping children, youth and families in need. She primarily worked at Clifford W. Beers Guidance Clinic as a clinician and parent educator. There she ran Family Support Groups and saw children and youth for counseling. She was an expert in a multiethnic family support curriculum and offered her expertise to train others in delivering that work. After retiring from Clifford Beers, Roz continued her work at the CCA family shelter and the Hospital of Raphael for parenting support.
There was not a time that Roz would walk through the grocery store or a street without some youth or parent calling out “Miss Roz” and proudly giving her an update her on their life, family and progress. Roz remembered every one of the children, youth and families she worked with over the years. With Roz’s love for the city and its children, she was exemplar of what makes a beloved community, and her work reflects the rich fabric of New Haven.
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.
Roz 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.