Jose Manuel Rodriguez

Jose Manuel Rodriguez, 88, passed away on February 09, 2022 at his home in Gulfport, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 17, 1933 in Corozal, Puerto Rico, the son of Julia Figueroa, and his father that he never knew because passed away before his birth. He grew up in Corozal and developed a love for music early in life. Jose learned to play the guitar and became very accomplished with it through the years. He enjoyed playing and singing, doing so any time he got the chance. He met Carmen and they were married in Puerto Rico in the mid 1950s. They decided to immigrate to the States shortly after and settled in the Bronx, NY. Jose went to work for International Paper in Sufforn, remaining there until his retirement in 1995. While in the Bronx, he attended Holy Cross Catholic Church where he was active in the choir, singing and playing his guitar. The family moved to Gulfport in November 2019 and have lived here since. Jose is lovingly remembered as a “10 star husband”, according to Carmen. A hard working provider, his family was the top priority of his life. He enjoyed gardening, often participating in the community gardens in the Bronx, where he planted vegetables and helped with others with theirs as well. His favorite pastime was his guitar. Any opportunity he had to play and sing, he would. A loving father with a loving heart and very strong faith, he will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by all whose life he touched. Jose was preceded by his father, his mother, Julia Figueroa; by his brothers Raul Caldero, Juan Caldero, Francisco Caldero, Miguel Caldero, Tite Caldero, and his sister, Ida Caldero. Left to cherish the memories and music are: his devoted wife of more than sixty-five years, Carmen Gloria (Moreno) Rodriguez; their daughter Yilda Rodriguez of Gulfport, and his brother, Raphael (Luz) Rodriguez. Friends and family will be received Friday, February 11, 2022 at 10:00 AM at Trinity Funeral Services, 319 Hwy 49 South McHenry, MS 39561. A funeral service will be held in the chapel, beginning at 12:00 PM with Father Michael Manascalco officiating. Burial will follow at Finley Cemetery in Gulfport. Online condolences can be made at trinityfunerals.net. Funeral arrangements were trusted to Trinity Funeral Services- McHenry, 319 HWY 49 South McHenry, MS 39561, (601) 928-5558.