Rosalie Hackett

Rosalie Laura Melton, beloved daughter of the late Harlan O. Melton, Sr. and Annabelle V. Byrd-Melton was born on September 24, 1938, in Wilmington, DE. She departed this world on July 24, 2025, in the comfort of her loving home. Rosalie was preceded in death by her husband, the late Harold Hackett, III. Rosalie, affectionately known as "Pony Tail," was educated in the Wilmington Public School System. She graduated from Howard High School in 1957. While attending Howard High School, Rosalie worked as a clerical co-op in the office of Louis L. Redding, the first Black attorney in DE. Pony Tail loved to dance and was popular for her appearances on The Mitch Thomas Show during its three-year run from 1955-1958. This show was one of the first televised dance events for Black teenagers with the purpose of broadcasting their creative talents. This show was influential to the creative dance styles seen on American Bandstand. Every Saturday, people would flock to their T.V. sets to watch the Mitch Thomas Show because it was a must-see. As one of the lead dancers on the show, Pony Tail was an all-time, Mitch favorite. He enjoyed calling on her to demonstrate her creative, fancy, and on-the-spot dance moves. Mitch would say "Ad Lib Pony" and she would immediately bust out some moves that were a combination of her own and those learned from her big brother, Harlan O. Melton, Jr, who affectionately called her Rosie. Pony Tail would learn skilled dance moves from her older brother, Harlan O. Melton, Jr., and teach them to her younger brother, Dennis. Pony Tail and Dennis shared many dances together on The Mitch Thomas Show. Pony Tail often spoke of the famous singers she had the opportunity to meet and dance with during her stardom on The Mitch Thomas Show. Some of those famous artists are: The Platters, Franky Lymon, James Brown, Mary Well, The Teenagers and Jackie Wilson. Rosalie became a devoted Jehovah's witness in 1985. She spent many years in field services with her faithful brother and sisters. Rosalie became a pioneer and found comfort in sharing the word of Jehovah. Her out of state trips to spread Jehovah's word and assist other members added fuel to her faith. When Covid hit, Rosalie continued her faith's journey by attending online meetings (via zoom), sending letters and making phone calls. Rosalie had an infectious, magnetic, and loving way with people. Her demonstration of empathy, compassion, and effective communication skills were soothing. Rosalie was employed by various companies throughout the Wilmington area. The temporary services loved her, and she was signed up to work for all of them. When one assignment ended, Rosalie already had plans for the next. Rosalie's dependability and strong work ethic gained her lots of recognition and respect from Upper Management. As a result, she was frequently asked to work for companies full-time. Of course, Rosalie refused because she preferred change and meeting new people. Chase, Wilmington Trust, AIG, DuPont, Webb Cleaners, Wilco, Hercules, and Sayre Brothers, and Blue Cross and Blue Shield (currently Highmark) are some of the companies Rosalie worked for. Rosalie was also preceded in death by her three sisters and two brothers. Doris R. Johnson (Edward), Leona M. Henderson (Melvin), Brenda M. Melton, Dennis H. Melton, Sr., and Donald E. Melton, and her maternal grandparents, Clarence J. Stewart, Sr., and Claudine Stewart. Rosalie leaves to cherish her memory: her devoted daughter, Walttina D, Ewell-Mincey. her son, Jonathan D., Mincey, two sisters, and four brothers. Toni A. McCurdy (Anthony) and Michelle A. Connor of Wilmington. DE, Harlan O. Melton. Jr. (Wanda), Seat Pleasant, MD, Claude J. Melton, Lawrence L. Melton, and Wayne D. Melton, all from Wilmington, DE, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Rosalie Hackett

September 24, 1938 - July 24, 2025