Josefina Rodriguez

Mrs. Josefina Rodriguez, age 72, of Utica, passed away on Thursday, April 13, 2006 at the Masonic Care Community of NY. Her loving family was by her side at the time of her passing. Born in Patillas, Puerto Rico on March 19, 1934, Josefina was the daughter of the late Ramon and Flora (Idlefonso) Rodriguez. She was raised and educated in Puerto Rico. On February 6, 1966 she married Gil O. Rodriguez. Josefina and Gil had been “true friends” since 1955, the year which they traditionally celebrated as their anniversary, and throughout their years together they shared a loving and steadfast relationship which was securely founded upon their deep respect and devotion for one another. Locally Mrs. Rodriguez was employed for many years at the Tri-State Laundry. Later she accepted a position as a CNA at the Masonic Home where she worked from 1969 until 1988. Josefina’s life revolved around her family and, in more recent times, her grandchildren. She was conscientious and dedicated in teaching her loved ones the beliefs of their Catholic faith. A truly generous woman, she was filled with the spirit of giving and shared whatever she had with family, friends, and anyone in need. Everything she offered to others was a true gift of her heart, and she never expected anything in return. Although a strong-willed individual and a hard worker, she also possessed a sense of humor that was personally and uniquely mischievous and a great delight to her family. She loved the holidays and derived great pleasure from decorating in the traditions of the season. Among Josefina’s favorite interests, she especially loved music, especially the Latin sounds of yesteryear. She also had a soft place in her heart for all animals, particularly her birds. She was adept at cross-stitching and ceramics and, in more recent years, has enjoyed playing Bingo. She was a communicant of Historic Old St. John’s Church. Mrs. Rodriguez is survived by her husband, Gil; 5 daughters, Eunice M. and Angel Cotto Sr. of Ilion, Marian Rodriguez and Louis of Springfield MA, Udelia “Judy” Rodriguez and Wilson of Frankfort, Elise Rodriguez and Marcos, and Shirley Rodriguez and Nano, all of Utica; and 2 sons, Miguel Angel Rivera of Puerto Rico, and David Rodriguez and Angela of Washington Mills. She is also survived by 18 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; a sister and 2 brothers; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. She also leaves many dear and cherished friends. She was predeceased by 2 sisters. The family extends its heartfelt thanks and deepest appreciation to all those who attended Josefina with such dedicated care and compassion, including the entire staff of the Masonic Care Community of NY as well as the staff of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, especially the personnel of the 6th floor, and also Dr. Lee. Visitation will be held today (Monday) from 4-7 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions to the Masonic Care Community of NY; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Josefina’s funeral will commence on Tuesday morning at 8:30 from the funeral home and at 9:30 at Historic Old St. John’s Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery.

Josefina Rodriguez

March 19, 1934 - April 13, 2006