Noemi Rodriguez, 89 years old, mother of 13 children, of the Hill Section died peacefully on Wednesday April 1, 2020, at her home on 79 Arch St., accompanied by her loving family.
Noemi was the beloved wife of Hermenegildo Rodriguez, who predeceased her on Nov. 4, 2001.
Noemi was born in Camuy, Puerto Rico, on December 9, 1930, a daughter of the late Porfirio González and the late Generosa Gerena.
Noemi was a founding and longtime member of the Star of Jacob Christian Church (Iglesia Cristiana Estrella de Jacob), 506 Howard Av. There she served in many capacities: Bible studies teacher at Casa Otonal, deacon, usher, provided spiritual home visits, member of the Women’s ministry, Soup Kitchen & Benevolence committees and was the co-leader of Sunday evening worhsip service.
In her civic role Noemi was actively involved in New Haven Public Schools (NHPS) as a parent and worker and was honored with a TAPPs Award for her “social work” services in her community. She was a driver attendant and was a summer programs counselor for the City of New Haven.
In her role as a neighborhood activist she was involved in local elections, canvassing the streets as well as working in the polls on election day.
She was a member of the Arch Street Block Watch Organization. Member of the 4th Ward Democratic Town Committee. She received a certificate from Yale University Upward Bound Program — The Institute for Adults on Issues in Urban Education.
She graduated from Assemblies of God Bible Institute (1967) and earned a High School certificate at the Skills Center. She continued her studies at the NHPS Adult Basic Education. Noemi attended all 13 graduations from Richard C. Lee High School of her 10 daughters and 3 sons. She was also present when all of them graduated from Colleges and Universities.
Noemi’s hobbies included: storytelling her personal and family history to her many grandchildren and all who visited her Arch Street home. Cooking for gatherings and special events for her family and friends. She was an expert crocheter, an avid gardener and reader, especially the Bible. She volunteered as a make-up artist for Cross Road Community Cathedral in Manchester for the Passion Play.
This amazing visionary and pioneer of the equal/civil rights movement traveled extensively. Noemi migrated from Lares, Puerto Rico in a 2‑engine airplane in 1956, graduated to jetliners and cruises. Her world travels include Israel, Turkey, Italy, Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, France, Holland, Germany, Canada, Mexico, Peru, Spain, Portugal Santo Domingo, Cuba, and over 30 states of these United States.
Noemi and the next generation.
Noemi is survived by 10 daughters and 3 sons: Ruth (Joaquin) Chico. Myrta (Francisco) Bonilla. Norma Rodriguez-Reyes. Carmen Ana Rodriguez. Abigail (Theodore) Curtis. Evelyn Rodriguez. Myriam Rodriguez. Elizabeth “Tata” (Jorge) Fuentes. Simirramis “Cindy” (Heriberto Cardona) Rodriguez. Hermen (Iris) Rodriguez. Ada (Samuel) Olivo. Abdias (Aracelis Cordero) Rodriguez. Ruben (Rosa) Rodriguez.
Noemi is also survived by 31 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren, along with “adopted” great grandhcildren and extended family.
Memorial service will be announced at a later date.
Contributions in her memory can be made to her beloved Star of Jacob Christian Church, 506 Howard Ave., New Haven CT 06519.