William McKenzie Rose

William McKenzie "Billy" Rose, age 82, of New Haven, Connecticut departed this life on Monday, December 22, 2025, after a long illness. He was born in Bucksport, South Carolina on November 21, 1943, to the late Willie and Willie Dean Rose. Billy was educated in the New Haven Public School System and graduated from James Hillhouse High School in 1962. Shortly after graduating, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.
In 1962, Billy married his high school sweetheart, Betty L. Byrd. From that union, eight children were born: Michael, William, Jr., Michelle, David, Richard, Regina, Kendall, and Dara.
Billy's strong work ethic was a major part of his legacy. He was employed at Standard Beef and CT Limousine before joining the Local 777 (Plumbers and Pipefitters) Union in 1971, retiring after many years of service.
Billy was very active with the youth in his community. He helped shape the lives of many young men while coaching in the MLK Little League and the Albie Booth Football League in the West Rock neighborhood for many years. A man of wisdom, kindness, and unwavering guidance, affectionately known as "Doctor Bill", he didn't mind sharing his thoughts, insight, and advice with anyone who would listen.
Billy accepted the Lord and served faithfully under the late Pastor John Good (Bible Gospel Center) and Pastor Charles Lewis (Covenant Christian Center) for many years. He also attended the Southern New England Regional Bible School. In 2015, Billy joined Basileia Outreach Ministry under the leadership of Pastor Walter J. Teague and served as a teaching Elder.
Billy's pleasant disposition, easy going manner, work ethic, and generous nature endeared him to all those he encountered. He loved life but most of all, he loved his family. He will truly be missed.
William "Billy" leaves to cherish his memories, his wife of 62 years, Betty L. Rose; sons, Michael Rose, David (Wanda) Rose, Richard (Tonia) Rose, and Kendall Rose; daughters, Michele Rose, Regina Rose-Barrett, and Dara Rose; brothers, Walter (Rosalee) Rose and Gary (Beatrice) Rose; sisters, Barbara Lewis, Patricia (Alvin) Hill, and Marlene Rose; sister-in-law, Joyce Tolliver- Byrd; brothers-in-law, Walter Byrd, Ronald Byrd, James Peterson, and Walter Teague; 17 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, Willie and WillieDean Rose; son, William Rose, Jr.; great-grandson, Mikai Bethea; two brothers, James Rose and Kevin Rose; three sisters, Joanne Thompson, Sarah Rose, and Brenda Rose.