WATERBURY- It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Rosetta (Boyette) Montford, age 74, of Waterbury, shares the news of her unexpected passing on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at Saint Mary’s Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved widow of William “Sonny” Montford.

Rosetta was born on October 7, 1951, in Sunbury, North Carolina, the beloved daughter of the late Betty Virginia Boyette. In 1974, she made the move to Waterbury, where she met the love of her life, Sonny. Together, they created a beautiful family and built lasting memories that will forever be treasured. A devoted and nurturing mother, Rosetta dedicated her life to her two beloved daughters, instilling in them the values of love, faith, and kindness. She was a faithful member of Zion Baptist Church, where she played an active role in the choir and served as a crisis lifeline counselor, providing support and compassion to those in need. Her warmth and generosity extended far beyond the church doors; as a dedicated cook at Crosby High School, Zion Baptist Church, and in her own home, delighting friends and family with her soul-warming collard greens, fried chicken, and cornbread.

Beyond her culinary talents, Rosetta loved all kinds of music and was a DJ in her 30’s and she loved to sew, especially her own outfits and patterns. Rosetta’s heart was most full when she was surrounded by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her joyful spirit and nurturing nature made her a beloved babysitter and a guiding light in their lives. Family was everything to Rosetta, and her love for them knew no bounds.

Left to honor and cherish her memory and legacy, are her children, Freda Lassiter and her husband Morgan Kinghorn and Sherry Lassiter, her siblings, Dennis and Soloman Lassiter, her grandchildren, Dejon and Marquez, and her great- grandchildren, Riley and Rylo. She also leaves behind her grand-daughter-in-law, Princess and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by her sibling, Johnny Lassiter.

Funeral services for Mrs. Montford will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at Casey's Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St Waterbury CT 06705. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of her family. Relatives and friends are invited to pay respects, and visit with the Montford family on Friday, February 20, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the service begins at 11:30 a.m. Loving kindness is always welcome, and it only takes a moment to send a message of condolence, words of comfort, or share a memory with the family and friends of someone important to you. To send a memorial gift to the family, please visit the funeral home website at www.caseyfunerals.com.