Carmen Francisca Rodriguez

Carmen Rodriguez, a beloved and cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, peacefully entered God’s embrace on October 23, 2025, at home, surrounded by her family in love and prayer.

Born in 1942 in Sancti Spiritus, Cuba, to father Alfonso and Mother Cecilia Belén, Carmen was raised in a home filled with love, faith, and dedication to family. Proud of her Cuban heritage, she sought freedom and liberty by immigrating to the United States, where she fell in love with her new American home and later became a citizen.

After arriving from Cuba in 1968, Carmen met her soulmate, Francisco Rodriguez. Their relationship blossomed, strengthened by their mutual faith and the belief that love endures all. They made their sacred covenant of marriage before God on December 19, 1969, and built a beautiful life together, rooted in prayer, laughter, and unconditional love, for 56 years.

As a devout parishioner at St. Vincent De Paul Parish in Pontiac, Michigan (now St. Damien of Molokai Parish), her faith was central to her life. Carmen actively volunteered her time helping others, including teaching Catechism and inspiring many with her gentle spirit and unwavering devotion to God. She sang in the choir alongside her husband, where they enjoyed serving God and the community with their love of music.

Carmen’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother to her children: Frank (and wife Kelly), Daniel (and wife Cindy), and Lisette. She poured her heart into raising them with values of faith, love, and unity, which continue to guide them. Carmen shared a special bond and deep love for all her nieces and nephews, particularly her nephew, Tito Herrera, whom she cared for like a son. Her children consider him a brother.

She was also a proud grandmother to Jasmen, who preceded her in death, and to Frank Jr. (and wife Hollie), Alicia, Alejandro (and wife Yainelys), Elena, Savanna (and fiancé Jacob), and, recently, Grayson. Carmen took immense joy in being part of their lives, celebrating their successes, and nurturing their dreams. Her blessings extended to her great-grandchildren: Korbin, Ella Rae, Sofia, Kylee, and Kayden. Even as her memory faded, her heart continued to share a love that transcended all.

Carmen’s life exemplified faith and love in action. She trusted in God’s plan and prayed faithfully for her family and loved ones. Her strength, kindness, and devotion will forever inspire those who carry her legacy in their hearts.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that Carmen is now at peace in the Lord’s embrace, reunited with her beloved granddaughter Jasmen, her siblings, parents, and loved ones who went before her. Her faith, love, and light will always guide us.

“Her children rise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: ‘Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.’” — Proverbs 31:28–29

A significant part of Carmen's journey was her time spent with all the staff at Encore Adult Daycare, Catholic Charities in Waterford. Her laughter and love continued even as her memory slowly faded, but the care and compassion of all the staff sustained her through the most challenging moments of her life. Carmen and her family are deeply grateful for the unwavering love and care she has received over the past seven years. Any donations are appreciated by Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan, Attention Encore ADS, 3621 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328.

The Rodriguez family extends heartfelt thanks to all who have offered prayers, love, and support during this time. Your kindness has been a great comfort and blessing.

A visitation service will be held on Monday, October 27th, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM with Rosary at 7:00 PM at COATS FUNERAL HOME-WATERFORD.  Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 28th, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Vincent DePaul Church, 46408 Woodward Avenue, Pontiac, MI 48342.

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