Celia M. Rodriguez

It is with immeasurable sadness, we share the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and “Angel,” Celia M. Rodriguez. Celia, a long-time Plainville resident, fell into eternal sleep peacefully at home on Tuesday morning, surrounded by her loving and adoring family.

Celia worked many years at Marlin Rockwell and then Honeywell, from where she eventually retired.  She loved to walk and could often be seen befriending the neighborhood dogs along her route. For many years, Celia also enjoyed exercising with her ‘Curves girls,’ Brenda, Julie, Jean and Lisa.

At their place of residence, long-time companion Richard V. Jakubauskas, and Ma, better known as Namie to her grandchildren, spent many hours gardening, feeding the birds, squirrels, and chipmunks, and binge-watching their favorite TV shows cozied up in their ‘his and hers’ chairs. Cooking was one of the many ways Ma selflessly nurtured her loved ones, passing on traditional family recipes to her children and grandchildren. More than anything, her greatest joy and love was the time spent with her devoted family and friends.

Along with her youthful, baby-soft skin and unparalled jagacida recipe, Celia will be remembered for striking a pose, her great wittiness, sense of humor, and favorite saying, “You’re not the boss of me!”

The youngest of ten children, Celia was born and raised in Middleboro, MA to Avelino Gomes, Sr. from Fogo, Cape Verde and Emma (Cabral) Gomes of São Miguel, Azores, Portugal.

Celia leaves behind her companion, Richard; four children and their families: John J. Rodriguez Jr. and wife Stasia of New Britain, CT; Linda Rodrigues of Boston, MA; Robin Crispino and husband Jerry of Southington, CT; and Rene (Nikki) Rodriguez and husband Jon Reininga of Maplewood, NJ; eight grandchildren: Nicole (Rodriguez) Fenix, Joshua Rodriguez, Ashley Hutson, Jeremy Crispino, Jessica Crispino, Erin Reininga, Tyler Reininga, and Emma Reininga; and one great-grandchild: Orianna Fenix. Celia is also survived by three siblings: Helen Roby of New Britain, CT; Arthur Gomes of Sacramento, CA; and Geraldine Gonsalves of Middleboro, MA, and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, six siblings, and former husband John (Sonny) J. Rodriguez, Sr.

At Celia’s request, there will be no calling hours or funeral service. She asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Plainville Community Food Pantry, 54 So Canal Street, Plainville 06062; and Connecticut Humane Society, 701 Russell Road, Newington, CT 06111.

The family sends their sincerest and most heartfelt gratitude to Trinity Hospice for their care and compassion; Carolyn Brodginski for her music therapy (Mountain Dulcimer); and Smilow Cancer Hospital at St. Francis, Medical Oncology Team, Pulmonary Department and the entire staff for their support, smiles, and laughter.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Celia M. Rodriguez, please visit our floral store.