Sonia Rodriguez

Sonia "Aela" Rodriguez

June 10, 1950 - May 9, 2025

Sonia Rodriguez, lovingly known as "Aela" or "Abuela," passed away on May 9, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on June 10, 1950, in Cali, Colombia, Sonia's life was a radiant story of love, strength, and resilience.

Sonia immigrated to the United States in the 1970s, bravely embracing a new life in a country where she barely spoke the language. Through her unwavering determination and unshakable faith, she built a beautiful life-learning English, building a career, raising a family, and living the American dream. She married the love of her life, George Rodriguez, with whom she shared more than four decades of love and partnership until his passing in January 2025. Together, they raised two sons, Danny and Paul, who carry forward her values and spirit.

Professionally, Sonia was a dedicated supervisor in the Accounts Payable Department at Northshore LIJ Hospital, where her reliability and kindness left a lasting impression. But her proudest roles were those she held within her family. Sonia was the heart of the household-a tiny woman with a giant capacity for love. She made everyone feel welcome, cared for, and deeply valued. Her home always smelled of delicious food, her hands were always busy, and her presence was a source of warmth and joy.

She was a firecracker: full of love, always in motion, and never one to sit still for long. Even when miles apart, she stayed close to her family-insisting on virtual dinners via FaceTime nearly every night. Her grandchildren-Harper, Hailey, Lincoln, Camila, and Marielle-adored her, and she adored them right back. Sonia always chose love, even when disappointed or disapproving. Her forgiveness was quiet, but her love was fierce.

Sonia is survived by her sons, Danny and Paul, and her beloved grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, George. While their passing just four months apart leaves an immense void, it brings comfort to know that they are reunited again.

A Memorial Mass celebrating Sonia's life will be held on June 21, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Sarasota, Florida.

Sonia Rodriguez was a woman of deep faith, boundless compassion, and unwavering strength. Her family is endlessly proud of everything she accomplished-and though their hearts ache, they are filled with gratitude for the time they shared. Her love will live on in the meals we cook, the stories we tell, and the way we gather-always, as a family.