On a Sunday, January 28, 1940, in Natchez, Miss., ROSA PORTER

was born to Leola Majors (Nichols). She was raised by Floyd and Sarah Porter and grew up in Natchez.

Rosa believed in education and continuous learning.

She graduated as the Salutatorian of her high school class at the age of 16. She attended Alcorn State University, graduating Magna Cum Laude at the age of 20 with a degree in English. That degree was put to good use, as her daughter will be only too happy to tell anyone. Following that she received a Master’s Degree in Counseling Education from Tuskegee Institute, and completed her coursework in Counseling Psychology from the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg.

She taught and worked as a guidance counselor for 14 years, directed the Basic Studies Program at Alcorn State University, and served in various positions at Delta Counseling in Monticello before coming to Little Rock, to work in administration at Little Rock Community Mental Health Center.

Although she had only one biological daughter, Rosa took a host of young men and women under her wings. They were all her sons and daughters, and she loved them all. Beyond that, the love of her life was her grandchild, Jamie. She was the first person to hold the baby, and they were inseparable for the rest of her life.

Rosa loved reading books, shopping, and her television shows. She also instilled a love of voting in her family and wore her “I Voted Early” stickers with pride.

Cherishing her memory are her two biggest fans, daughter Debra; and grandchild Jamie. With them, she shared her sense of humor and her love of Family Feud.

Fond memories of this beautiful spirit also abide in the hearts of her sisters, Ola, Marsha (Lorenzo), and Cynthia (Latrice); her nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death are brothers Michael and Shaun; and sister April.

On another Sunday, July 4, 2021, Rosa Porter left her battles behind. She has earned her rest. She will never be forgotten by those who knew her and loved her.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, July 31, 2021, at the Hardy Funeral Home, 5300 W. 12th, Little Rock, Ark. 72204. Cremation Arrangements Entrusted to Arkansas Cremation. www.ArkansasCremation.com.