New Haven, CT – Carletta Faye Fountain, 71, a cherished mother, sister, counselor and cosmetologist, peacefully entered the presence of the Lord on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Born February 7, 1955, in Greenville, North Carolina, Carletta spent much of her adult life serving the New Haven community.
Faith‑Centered Life
Carletta’s Christian faith began at Mt. Calvary Free Will Baptist Church in Greenville and remained the cornerstone of her life. In her later years she was a faithful member of Body of Christ Assemblies, where she continued to share the love and humility that defined her character.
Career in Service
After graduating from J. H. Rose High School in 1973, Carletta moved to Connecticut to be near family, especially her older sister Cheryl. She pursued further education at South Central Community College, Southern Connecticut State University and the Wilfred Academy of Hair and Beauty Culture.
Carletta devoted years to helping individuals and families affected by addiction. She worked as a substance‑abuse counselor and therapist at Cornell Scott‑Hill Health Center’s Northside Program, and also held positions with Iota Job Corps, the YMCA and Southern New England Telephone. Her counseling emphasized compassion, encouragement and hope.
Cosmetology and Community Connections
Following her counseling career, Carletta fulfilled a lifelong dream by becoming a licensed cosmetologist. She brought confidence and joy to countless clients at Ward’s House of Style—where the owner affectionately called her the “Princess Queen of Ward’s”—and at McAdoo’s Barbershop in New Haven. For Carletta, styling hair was another avenue to connect, uplift and share laughter.
Family and Personal Passions
Carletta was a devoted mother to three children—Corey Merritt, Charles Merritt (Shaquana) and Anya Fountain—and a loving grandmother, sister, aunt and god‑relative. She treasured family traditions, especially cooking Christmas‑morning breakfasts for her boys. Her creative spirit shone through singing, classic black‑and‑white movies, crafting, and making no‑sew blankets for loved ones.
Legacy and Celebration
A celebration of Carletta’s life will be held Friday, November 13, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Matthew’s UFW Baptist Church, 400 Dixwell Ave, New Haven. Friends may call the church from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Beaverdale Memorial Park. Howard K. Hill Funeral Services will conduct the services.
Those who knew Carletta will remember her gentle spirit, soft‑spoken manner and unwavering willingness to listen. Her legacy of faith, love, service and compassion will continue to inspire the New Haven community for generations.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
