It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rosaura Rodriguez, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Rosaura was 86 years old and lived a full and joyful life, bringing love and happiness to all those around her. She is survived by her son Milton, daughters Rosa and Janet, 10 grandchildren (Milton Manuel, Miton Emanuel, Manuel Alejandro, Hector Antonio, Aurora, Jose Emilio, Steve, Manuel Enrique, Kenton DeAndre, and Michael DeAnthony), six great grandchildren (Elijah, Julian, JesMia, Jonavon, Gabriela, and Khaleesi).

Rosaura was deeply loved by her family, neighbors, medical team, and community and was known affectionately as Chuni, Rosa, Grandma, and Abuelita. Her story begins in Cayey, Puerto Rico where her adopted parents taught her God’s word, love, and service to others. This foundation shaped her character and became her compass in life.  She was a woman of many talents and passions. In addition to her passion for singing and dancing, she was a skilled cook known for her delicious Puerto Rican dishes which she learned while working in her family’s restaurant, La Fonda, in Manatí, Puerto Rico.

At the age of 17, she departed Puerto Rico, the Island of Enchantment, in search of a new adventure and a better life. She traveled to New York making Brooklyn her new home. Needing to earn enough money to pay $28 monthly rent, she worked various interesting jobs in cosmetics, chocolate factory, Bellevue Hospital, Pfizer Inc., and others. We treasured the stories of her life in the Big Apple, but her adventures did not end there.  After some time, she traveled to South Florida where she raised a family and worked at Textile Prints, a t-shirt company in Miami.

Among the many interesting facts about Rosaura’s life is that she served as the point of transition (the hub) for many of the family members that relocated to Florida. Her willingness to open her home to others extended hope, opportunity, and a better life for current and future generations. She gave freely, never asking for anything in return. Despite facing many challenges and hardships throughout her life, she remained strong and resilient, always finding a way to persevere and find joy in the midst of adversity. In her final years, she faced declining health with grace and courage.

Grandma will be remembered for her love for humanity and serving heart. She never met a stranger; everyone was her friend. Her appreciation for people knew no boundaries. With her, you could be your true self. She was a great listener and counselor. She listened without judgment. Her advice always came from a place of love and compassion. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. She will live on in the memories and hearts of the lives she touched for generations to come. Today we celebrate her life and enduring legacy of love and service for all of mankind.

ROSAURA RODRIGUEZ 06 May 1936 – 03 January 2023