Rosa E. Burney

ROSA EDITH MONTGOMERY, was born August 26, 1943 in Lynchburg, South Carolina to the late Inez Brailey and late Paul Montgomery. She was the last of seven children: Marie, John, Clara, Robert, Mary, Harry and Rosa. She attended Fleming High School in Lynchburg, South Carolina. At the age of 14, she moved to Baltimore, Maryland where she was reared by her late Aunt and Uncle- Clara and Nathan Moultrie. Rosa graduated from Southern High School in Baltimore and later attended school for cosmetology. On October 24, 1961, Rosa gave birth to her first child, Michelle aka "Shelly". Rosa married the late Booker T. Black Jr. and birthed her second child, Paula aka "Stinky"- on October 24, 1963. Both daughters preceded her in death. In 1975, Rosa married the late Edward Burney, the love of her life. Rosa enjoyed playing cards! She and her sister Mary were know as the "Tag Team Duo". They slaughtered their opponents, making the card game intense and enjoyable for everyone to watch. Rosa had many talents-styling hair, interior decorating, and fashion design. She loved dressing up others to look their best. Rosa was know as the "Fashion Queen" in her "heydays". She had a joyful soul and brought laughter and enjoyment to every conversation. Her bubbly personality was infectious. Her nieces and nephews affectionately called her "Auntie". She loved children and children loved her because she was "Fun and Down to Earth"-imparting words of wisdom without judging! She had a strong belief in God and encouraged others to be mannerly and respectful. Rosa retired from the State of Maryland Department of Social Services as a Caseworker. Afterwards, she became the volunteer child care provider for the grand/nieces/nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In March 2016, when Rosa became ill, her oldest grandson Michael aka "Pee-Wee", moved her from Baltimore to Eastern Shore, MD. From birth, she reared him like a son and he reciprocated by caring for her until the end. Rosa delighted in visiting her nieces/nephew (Carol, Rene', Timmy, Betty, Diann) in Baltimore, to reminisce about the "Good Old Days", as well as educating them on the family history. As Rosa rests in Paradise, she leaves to carry on her legacy: one sisters: Mary Montgomery; four grandchildren: Michael Montgomery, Marquia Melton, Steven Melton, and Sterling Melton; six great grandchildren; and a host of family and friends that will truly miss her dearly.

Tributes

Rosa E. Burney

August 26, 1943 - December 25, 2018