Rosa Belle Smalls McMillan, was born on July 16, 1943 in Bamberg, SC to the late WIllie B. Smalls and Ladean Harper Smalls. "Monk" as she was affectionately called by her family was the youngest of five children.  She graduated from Richard Carroll public schools before relocating and planting her roots in Brooklyn, NY where she dedicated her life to her family and raising her three daughters, Sharon, Stephanie & Sydonnie.

She was a member of St. Francis Catholic Church and was often seen attending morning mass. Rosa loved cooking her homemade butter pecan ice cream and banana pudding which were two desserts she was infamous for! She also loved being surrounded by family especially on holidays. She went by many names over the years such as Ms. Rose, Aunt Monk & just Monk but her two favorites were, Mommy & Grammy!