Rosalyn Montgomery

Montgomery, wife, mother, grandmother and family matriarch, passed her high school equivalency exam at the age of 68, less than a month after her birthday. She had to drop out of school at the age of 12 to care for her brothers and sisters while her parents worked. Over many years, she attended adult education classes, and she made a promise to her mother and herself that she would not give up, despite a medical condition that proves difficult for her to read for extended periods of time.

 

“I wanted to complete something I started,” Montgomery said upon passing the high school equivalency test. “I wanted to be a role model and show people that if you put in the time and work, you will be victorious.” Her teacher and nominator for the award Shundria Whitfield said, “Not only did Mrs. Montgomery come to class daily, but she was also a caregiver to her ailing husband and brother. She was able to be mother, grandmother and friend to so many of the students who were in class with her. Many times, she was a pillar in time of need to her peers because they depended on her for words of encouragement, guidance and structure. In addition to her academic success, she embodies qualities of leadership, integrity and resilience that make her an outstanding candidate for this award. Her positive attitude, work ethic and dedication to self-improvement make her an exceptional role model for others to follow for years to come."

 

Montgomery and her husband, James, have three children, Tasharee, Lacrista and James Eric, and four grandchildren, Zion and Zoriah Barnes, Jaitlyn Kidd and Darius Morris. She volunteers at Small Beginnings Early Learning Center in Nettleton and participates in various activities at her church (Straight Gate Holiness Church in Nettleton). Montgomery plans to enroll in Itawamba Community College’s interior design class and start her own business.