Alfaretta Jackson Massey, 78, of Newport, Rhode Island, died on May 22, 2025. Born in Newport, RI on January 1, 1947, She was the daughter of the late Thomas and Frances (Wigington) Massey.
Alfaretta, aka “Tila”, grew up in Newport and moved to Westchester County New York as a young woman. She lived in Mt. Vernon, NY for many years where she raised her family. Early in her career she was a CNA, but returned to school and became a licensed EMT for Empress Ambulance Services in Yonkers, NY. Alfaretta enjoyed a rewarding career where she retired as a Paramedic Supervisor. Upon her retirement, she returned to her roots in Newport, RI. She continued to be the most supportive and engaged Nana her grandchildren could ask for. She traveled often to visit each grandchild, attending sports events and special occasions regularly. No matter where she resided, she was always the neighborhood mom and Nana to all; as her son Kenneth shared, “Her heart and her home were a haven for everyone”. Alfaretta loved her family and was fun loving, caring, helpful, and shared her professional knowledge to help others navigate health concerns and curiosities.
Alfaretta is survived by her children, L. Joyce Edison (Thomas) of West Palm Beach, FL; Audra Byas (Belvyn) of Austell, GA; Robbin Brown (Gerald) of McDonough, GA; Monifa T. Jackson of Washington, DC; Kenneth Jackson of Newport, RI, her brother James Roger Massey of Tiverton, RI; 11 beloved grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Alfaretta is preceded in death by her parents; son Omar Keith Jackson; and her siblings Henry Walmsly, Louella Ives, Raymond Walmsly, Thomas Milton Massey, and Dennis Massey.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Community Baptist Church, 50 Dr. Marcus Wheatland Blvd., Newport RI 02840.
Online tributes www.memorialfuneralhome.com
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