Cantalicia Rodriguez

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Cantalicia Rodriguez, lovingly known to all as Alicia, who left this world on February 17, 2025, at her home in Bridgeport, Connecticut. She was born on May 18, 1941, in Caguas, Puerto Rico, and moved to Connecticut over sixty years ago, where she built her life and family.

Alicia was a gentle soul, a devoted Catholic whose simple and humble nature profoundly touched all those who had the privilege to know her.  She has been a dedicated member of St. Mary's Parish for over half a century.   She often shunned the limelight, preferring a life that was low-maintenance, yet filled with love. Her food, an exquisite testament to her culinary talent, was shared generously with family and friends, embodying her belief that love is best expressed through nurturing those around her.

In 1970, she married the great love of her life Jose Rafael Rodriguez, a partnership that blossomed into a nurturing family environment. Together, they created a home overflowing with warmth and laughter. Alicia dedicated her life to caring for her loved ones, with her family serving as her main priority, always prioritizing their happiness and well-being above her own.  Outside of her home she worked as a seamstress in the garment industry.

Alicia is survived by her loving husband, Jose; their son, Rafael Rodriguez; and their daughter, Marybeth Rodriguez. She also cherished her grandsons, Julio Otero Jr. and Joel Otero, who brought immense joy to her life. Her legacy of love will continue through them and the countless memories they hold dear.

She is also survived by her siblings, Carmen, Socorro, Carmen M., Mercedes, Hector Baez Rivera, who carry forward her spirit of kindness and resilience.

Alicia joins her parents, Julio Baez Cotto and Lucia Rivera Rodriguez, in eternal rest, along with her siblings Pedro, Andres, and Emilio Baez Rivera. Their spirits welcome her home after a life filled with devotion to family and faith.

The visitation service for Alicia will be held on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at Funeraria Luz De Paz in Bridgeport from 9:45 AM, followed by a Mass at St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church at 1:00 PM. She will be laid to rest at Lakeview Cemetery following the burial service at 2:15 PM.

As we remember Alicia, let us celebrate her quiet strength, her endless love, and the warmth she brought into our lives. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished in our memories.