Rosita Matthews, beloved mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted servant of God, entered into eternal rest peacefully on July 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on March 16, 1944, to the late William C. Matthews and Helen (Wood) Macklin, Rosita was a woman of exceptional class, culture, and grace. She lived a life rooted in prayer, strength, and an unwavering devotion to God and her family. A woman of deep Catholic faith, she was a longtime parishioner within the Catholic Diocese, where her faith guided her every step.

Rosita was admired for her intellect, vision, and refined spirit. She placed immense value on education and was a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and the advancement of African American culture. Recognizing the systemic challenges faced by Black communities, Rosita dedicated herself to breaking down barriers. She carried herself with dignity and purpose, ensuring she passed down practical systems, family traditions, and life tools—equipping her children and grandchildren with the knowledge, security, and confidence
needed to navigate the world with excellence.

Beyond her dedication to her faith and family, Rosita was a cherished and long-serving employee of AT&T. She began her career with Ohio Bell, staying with the company as it transitioned to AT&T over the years. Throughout her career, she built deep, lasting relationships with her colleagues, turning her workplace into an extended family. Though her work eventually called her to relocate to Columbus, Rosita’s heart always remained tied to her roots. She commuted regularly back to Akron to visit loved ones, ensuring that distance never diminished her bonds or the traditions she held dear.

Rosita was preceded in death by her parents; her cherished daughters, Courtney Jones-Hunter and Cydney Eleana Martin; and her dear sisters, Mary Ellen Harvey and Anita Bowens. She is survived by her loving siblings: her sister, Donna Jean Matthews, and her brother, James Couch (and his wife, LaDora Couch).

Her memory will be forever cherished by her surviving children: her son, Jonathan S. White Jr. (Scotty); her daughter, Dr. Camille White; and her sons-in-law, James Martin and Dallas Hunter. Rosita’s legacy of elegance, faith, education, systemic empowerment, and family traditions continues through her grandchildren, listed in order of birth: Alexander Andrew, Tristyn Matthews-Archer, Taylor Martin, Jaymes Martin, and Courtney Jones.

She was also richly blessed with the joy of her great-grandchildren, also in order of birth: Nikolaus, Nathaniel Matthews III, Eleana, Karter, Kais, and Aislynn, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, former colleagues, and dear friends.