Rolynda T. Ford

Rolynda Thomasina Ford was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on May 25, 1946. She was the beloved daughter of the late Helen Elizabeth Ford and Thomas T. Ford.
Rolynda was educated in the Pittsburgh Public School System and was a proud graduate of George Westinghouse High School, where she was a majorette in the school band. During her youth, she met and married her husband, James Richard White. From this union, five children were born: Pamela, Kimberly, James R. Jr., Tyrone, and Sandrae. Although she was blessed with five children of her own, she was also a proud aunt and mother figure to Anthony, Tracy, and Elrades. Rolynda, deeply loved and cherished her uncles, who always showed her kindness, support, and care.
Rolynda was a compassionate, devoted, and exceptional mother who adored her children and instilled in them the values of love, compassion, and strength. She had a kind spirit that made everyone around her feel valued, appreciated, and welcomed. When Rolynda entered a room, her presence was immediately felt. She listened with her whole heart, spoke with wisdom and experience, and carried herself with poise and quiet grace that naturally commanded respect. She had a remarkable gift for 
turning ordinary moments into cherished memories. Rolynda was also a loyal and dedicated friend who would always tell you the truth and loved engaging in heartfelt conversations.
Among her many accomplishments, Rolynda proudly retired after 32 years of dedicated service with Allegheny County as a remapping drafter for the City of Pittsburgh. She was a strong union steward and advocate who worked tirelessly to ensure employees were treated fairly, creating positive changes that continue to benefit others today. Most importantly, she was a faithful missionary member of Mt. Ararat Baptist Church.
Everyone who knew Rolynda knew she loved to dance, shop until she dropped, decorate beautifully, and celebrate Pittsburgh Steelers games with her family. She had a special way of bringing people together, and her love and laughter will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. In true Rolynda fashion, she would often say, “You know what my motto is… getting old is a b$tch.”
On May 6, 2026, Rolynda peacefully departed this life. She was preceded in death by her parents, Helen Elizabeth Ford and Thomas T. Ford; and her sister, Sandra Lee Norman.
Rolynda leaves to cherish her precious memory her loving children: Pamela L. White-Knight, Kimberly M. White, James R. White Jr., and Sandrae L. (Nick) White; grandchildren: Briana Knight, Janee Hill,Janell Hill, Brittany Knight, Maya Blue, Jiana White, Rahmeire Wright, Brandon Thomas, Thai White, Antoine Smith Jr., Christopher Toloin; great-grandchildren, DeShawn Robertson, Josiah Hill, Zion Knight, Quintay Casey Jr., Zayia Casey, Rahjee Hill-Broadus, Amore Hill; She also leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss her tremendously.

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