Born in Paredes do Alvoa, Portugal; he was a son of Lila (Carvalho) and the late Francisco Rodrigues.
My husband, Tony, was born in the small northern village of Paredes do Alvoa, Portugal. At the age of 8 he immigrated to the US through Ellis Island in 1963 and then became an American Citizen on my birthday in 1971. He was so proud to be a citizen and loved showing his patriotism any chance he could. Tony is the second oldest of the 10 children in the US and one half brother in France. Having such a large family brought out his caring and nurturing side at a very young age. He continued to support his siblings in any way he could throughout his life.
Tony worked hard starting at a very young age working on the farms in Portugal and delivering groceries as an adolescent in Fox Point. His first full time job was at Davol Rubber before he started the schooling for his trade. He attended New England Tech Trade School for electrical training in 1975. He was employed for 27 years at AJ Oster/Cookson America which supported him through his apprenticeship, journeyman and eventual Master Contractor’s Licensure. This allowed Tony to operate his own electrical business, Anthony Rodrigues Electric- A.R.E., for almost 40 years. Even as a small business owner he was able to obtain the accounts of the Providence Journal, Jewelry Institute, Bonanza and Peter Pan Bus lines. This was a reflection of his hard work ethic and being known as an honest, knowledgeable, and reliable contractor. Tony continued to work until his last days at his most recent job of 20 years as the electrical maintenance supervisor at the Smithfield Public Schools. He so enjoyed being a part of the Smithfield community and improving the schools for the kids.
Tony loved all types of organized sports, even though he never could play as a kid. He made many friends playing men’s softball for Davol, AJ Oster, and the Smithfield Men’s league. But gained the most enjoyment when coaching his children and their friends throughout their younger years in soccer, basketball and softball.
He was the loving father of Dr. Anthony C. Rodrigues and his wife Sarah and Nancy L. Giordano; cherished grandfather of A.J., Talia, and Rocco Rodrigues; brother of Maria Martella, Lucy Rodrigues, Jacqueline Estrella, Edward, James, Jeffrey, George, and Steven Rodrigues, Abel Reguengo, and the late Irene Goulart; and uncle of many nieces and nephews.
Tony’s most important role was being a great dad to his “sweetheart” daughter and son. He always found time for supporting his children in all their endeavors. Tony prioritized education for his children even though he was unable to experience it himself. He sacrificed to provide them the opportunity for college and more, allowing them to become a teacher and physician. He was not only blessed with two beautiful children, but also 3 wonderful grandchildren who know him as Poppy. Poppy cherished his roles while traveling to Westwood MA to babysit, attend games, recitals, plays, concerts… or whatever for “my 3 little birds.”
On my birthday, May 3rd 2023, we would have been celebrating our 48th wedding anniversary. We were high school sweethearts, attending my senior prom in 1973. I will forever thank God for sending such a loving, caring provider for myself and my family. I will always be grateful for the love, respect and care he gave my mom, whom he lived with throughout our marriage. Even though Tony left us too soon, we were fortunate to have his last days due to the excellent medical care he received. I would like to thank everyone at the Tufts Intensive Care Unit for their care and kindness throughout this ordeal. Special thanks to the Chaplain Ali for her prayers with me to St. Francis.
Tony, I’m at a loss for words knowing I have to live without you. You have been my first and only love! For the last 50 years, you always made everything all right, no matter what. My heart literally broke the day I lost you. I pray God blesses you with the health you deserve. I pray for your peace and rest. I also pray for the strength you’ve always given me. You are the strongest man I have ever known. Wishing you to be safe and happy. I love you more now than ever before, hugging you forever.
Rowe, your “cara linda” XO
Tony’s visitation will be held Friday, February 3rd 4:00-7:00 p.m. in the Pontarelli-Marino Home, 971 Branch Ave, Providence. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, February 4th at 10:00 a.m. in Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 21 Traverse St, Providence. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, www.t2t.org
DONACIONES
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.11.0