Zenaida Rodriguez

Zenaida Rodríguez Roman, a beacon of faith and love, passed away naturally on May 10, 2025, at the age of 93, in San Antonio, Texas. Born on February 10, 1932, in Puerto Rico, Zenaida lived a life characterized by courage, devotion, and an unyielding work ethic. She was an inspiration to all who knew her, and her legacy will be cherished for generations to come.
Zenaida's early life was marked by determination as she self-educated herself using her cherished Holy Bible. In her pages, she found solace and strength, teaching herself to read and write in both Spanish and English. A devout Catholic, Zenaida embodied the essence of faith, praying the Rosary daily on her knees for the protection and well-being of her beloved children. Her commitment to her faith and family formed the cornerstone of her remarkable life.Despite beginning her work life at the tender age of ten in Puerto Rico, ironing clothing with meticulous care, Zenaida never let adversity dampen her spirit. Her tenure at the renowned soda cracker manufacturer Rovira was a testament to her resilience. Yet, it was in her role as an accomplished seamstress that Zenaida truly shone. With deft hands and a keen eye, she crafted beautiful garments, providing for her family and ensuring they received a quality education and the value of hard, honest work.
Zenaida is lovingly remembered by her family, including Efrain Rios, Robert Rodríguez, Cynthia Rodríguez, and her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren sprawled across the United States from Philadelphia to Muncie, Indiana. Though her daughter Magdeline Rios preceded her in death 25 years ago, Zenaida's ten brothers and sisters across Puerto Rico, New York City, Massachusetts, South Carolina, and California carry forward her indomitable spirit.In her leisure, Zenaida found joy in the escapism of classic films, from the romance of the silver screen in the Bronx to the drama of television novels. Her heart swayed to the rhythms of Puerto Rican greats like Roberto Ledesma, Cheo Feliciano, Ricky Martin, Marc Anthony, and Celia Cruz.
A skilled knitter, Zenaida wove love into every stitch, crafting queen-sized blankets with intricate designs that won her trophies and creating cozy booties for children, all while nourishing her soul with scripture.Zenaida's life was a portrait of love and courage. She was a woman of incomparable strength, whose faith-filled life was an embodiment of the well-known proverb: "She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future" (Proverbs 31:25). This verse not only describes her character but echoes the impact she had on those around her, guiding them with a gentle hand and an unshakeable certainty in a brighter tomorrow.
Other quotes she shared with her children were, "Tell me who you walk with and I'll tell you who you are!" and "Your friend is a dollar in your pocket!" A wise and faithful mother, she would always say to them, "God bless you." In Spanish, "Dios te bendiga."As we bid farewell to Zenaida Rodríguez Roman, we celebrate her remarkable journey-a life lived fully, with every thread interwoven with love and faith. Her legacy endures in the memories she leaves behind, the family she nurtured, and the countless lives she touched with her loving heart and courageous spirit. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Zenaida, please visit our floral store.