Santiago Rodriguez

Santiago Rodriguez, our beloved Patriarch, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, at the remarkable age of 103. He was born on May 1, 1922, in beautiful Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, the oldest of six, known to his family and friends as Chago or Rod. He served in the Army during World War II, then he and his lovely wife, Laura, and their daughters moved to New York and El Paso ultimately landing in Bronx, New York to raise their four girls. Prior to retiring to Clearwater, Florida, he worked for the Small Business Administration in New York City as a bi-lingual loan officer.

Santiago was known for his charm and fun-loving personality. He was a loyal Yankees fan, enjoyed playing baseball, was an avid bowler, and his family saw him as the Latin Fred Astaire as he remained the last one standing on the dance floor. Our patriarch was a devout Christian who served as a deacon in his church and hosted bible studies in his home. He believed in God’s goodness and direction to love each other and not to forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels among us; he remained a humble servant to the end.

Santiago Rodriguez -- the Man, the Myth, the Legend. Behind every legend is a legacy and behind every legacy is love. How he loved us all and we simply adored him. He is survived by his sister, Galo, two daughters Hilda and Mildred, 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, 9 great-great grandchildren, and nieces and nephews who viewed him as a second father. He is predeceased by his beloved wife Laura and daughters Laura and Myrna. 💖 El Mejor Abuelo Del Mundo 💖

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that, in his honor, donations be made to Suncoast Hospice Foundation as they showed him love, compassion, and dignity in his final days. https://SuncoastHospiceFoundation.org and selecting the Donate button on the grey banner at the very top of the page.

A private graveside service will be held at Florida National Cemetery with a celebration of life to take place at a later date.