Carmen Maysonet Rodriguez

A Life Well Spent 

Carmen Maysonet Rodriguez was on born on September 16, 1931 in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. She lived a life filled with a passion for cooking, unwavering faith in God and an intrinsic drive to better the lives of those around her. Carmen touched not just those in her immediate family, but thousands of lives from New York City to her tropical homeland of Puerto Rico. 

A fearless woman, she set out for New York City, alone, in 1947, graduating from Baruch College in the 70’s and entering the workforce soon after. She was unique amongst women of the time. While most were stay-at-home mothers, she worked, raised 4 children and took on many inequities plaguing New York City. Carmen’s philosophy was “never make people ask for what you have to offer, just give it to them.” She gave her time, her knowledge, and her kitchen, freely and with great joy. She would often be observed in deep prayer in the mornings, participating in weekly Bible study and ministering to the needy. 

Our recollections can provide only dim reflections of her life and mere words are not enough to capture her full impact. Her personality was a touch of seriousness balanced by a subtle sense of humor that was shared between her and other lucky individuals in the room. She could make a child laugh in an instant and had endless hugs and “besitos” for those close to her. 

Carmen was raised in a religious household and always maintained her belief in Christ as her Lord. Her church, the International Praise Church of God in Columbia, SC, was her second home. Her church family sustained her through hardships and enhanced her celebrations. She was, and is, loved by all who knew her. 

Carmen leaves behind her beloved husband of 68 years, Victor Rodriguez. Her children, Victor, Luis, Victoria and Tanya. She will continue in spirit to inspire her grandchildren: Victor, Andres, Venessa, Shaka, Khari, Marcia, Edgar, Andelyn, Faith, Xzavier, Gideon, and Aaron, along with seven great-grandchildren. 

She will be remembered for her joy, laughter, arroz con habichuelas and, most of all, love.

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