Noemi “Judy” Rodríguez

Noemi Garcia was born on February 23, 1941, in Naguabo, Puerto Rico, to Monserrate and Justina Garcia. Though her aunt lovingly chose the name Judy for her, her parents had already named her Noemi, and so Judy became her affectionate nickname.

At the age of 11, Noemi and her family moved from Puerto Rico to Philadelphia. She was accompanied by her parents, older sister, Monchita, and younger brothers, Michael and Antonio. The winter weather was harsh, and Noemi fell ill with pneumonia, spending almost a month in the hospital. Despite the challenges, Noemi's resilience shone through, and she soon found a new sense of belonging at the First Christian Missionary Church, where she later met Benjamin "Benny" Rodriguez, who would become her husband.

 After graduating from Mastbaum High School, Noemi began working for the City of Philadelphia's Health Department. Starting as a clerk, she soon became an interpreter, a role she cherished for many years. Noemi loved helping the Hispanic community by translating for patients and doctors, creating informative materials, and even teaching health classes. Her work was a true calling, and she continued serving others with kindness and dedication until her retirement at age 55.

 In 1962, at 21, Noemi married Benny, and together they raised three wonderful children: Ronald, Cynthia, and Benjamin. She was deeply committed to her children's education, making sure they had a strong grasp of English and later teaching them Spanish as they grew. Noemi poured her heart into raising her children, instilling in them a love for learning, a close-knit family bond, and a strong sense of faith. She was a devoted member of her church, teaching Youth Sunday School and later becoming a deaconess.

 In her retirement, Noemi's compassion continued to shine. She joined a small group of women from her church to visit sick and homebound members, offering comfort and companionship. She also cared for her aging parents, helping her brother manage their finances and ensuring they were well cared for.

 Though life wasn't always easy, Noemi's strength, love, and determination carried her through the toughest of times. Despite facing health challenges, including pulmonary fibrosis that made breathing difficult, Noemi maintained her independence for many years. She lived in her own home until November 2023, when she moved in with her daughter, Cynthia, and her husband for additional support. Even as her health declined, Noemi remained involved in her church, attending services on weekends and socializing with fellow members on the church transportation bus. As her condition progressed, she enjoyed watching services online, always staying connected to her faith and community.

 Noemi's strength, kindness, and unwavering faith touched the lives of all who knew her. She was truly the heart of her family, and to her children, she was nothing short of a superhero. Through every challenge, she remained a pillar of love, encouragement, and grace.

 In 1995, Noemi's heart grew even fuller with the arrival of her first grandchild, Jessica, followed by the joy of more granddaughters: Marisol and Ariana, all from her oldest son, Ronny. She cherished being a grandmother, and her love for her grandchildren was boundless.

 Her youngest son, Jesse, also blessed her with two wonderful grandsons, Daniel and Benjamin. Noemi's family continued to expand with the addition of her daughter Cindy's children, Victoria and Grant, from her marriage. Each grandchild brought her immense pride and joy, and Noemi loved spending time with them, creating precious memories that will live on in their hearts.

 As a grandmother, Noemi's nurturing spirit and warm heart continued to shine. She loved watching her grandchildren grow, always offering words of wisdom, comfort, and love. To them, she was not just a grandmother-she was a guiding light, a source of unconditional love, and a treasured role model.

 Noemi's family continued to grow with the arrival of her four beautiful great-grandchildren, a new generation that brought even more joy and love into her life.

 Her two oldest granddaughters, Jessica and Marisol, each blessed her with two children of their own. 

Jessica's son, River, and daughter, Rain Olivia, filled Noemi's heart with pride and delight.

 Marisol's family brought great joy, with her oldest daughter, Amelia (Noemi's first great-granddaughter), and youngest daughter, Sienna, adding to Noemi's legacy. Each great-grandchild was a precious gift, and always reminded Noemi of the deep love that ran through their family.

Judy’s Life Celebration service will be held as follows. 

Date; Sunday December 1, 2024. 

Time; 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.  

Life Celebration service; 7:00 PM.

Location; Primera Iglesia Cristiana Misionera 4236 Whitaker Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19120. 

Final Viewing & Interment Information. 

Date; Monday December 2, 2024. 

Time; 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. 

Location; Primera Iglesia Cristiana Misionera 4236 Whitaker Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19120. 

1. Interment; Greenmount Cemetery 4301 N. Front St., Philadelphia, PA, 19140.   12:15 PM.