Maria Antonia Espi Rodriguez

Maria Antonia was born on October 7, 1939 in Havana, Cuba. She attended the Sacred Heart Schools in Havana and at “Norton” in Darien, CT. She sought refuge in the United State in November 1961 and briefly lived in Miami before moving to Washington, D.C. She married Miguel Angel Rodriguez Casallas in 1968. Maria Antonia worked for the Organization of American States, U.S. Geological Survey and The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in D.C. For the past 20 years, “Tonnee” was a fixture at the Port of Miami where she worked as a Pier Agent along with her husband. Her work at the Port of Miami brought her great joy and many lasting friendships.

Maria Antonia is survived by her husband of 52 years Miguel Angel; her son Miguel Angel Rodriguez Espi and his wife Carina Froeschl; and daughter Maria Antonia Roberts and her husband Greg Roberts. Maria Antonia doted on and was proud of her grandchildren Sophia Alexandra, Madeleine Maria and Gabriel Stefan Rodriguez and Maria Antonia Lucille “Macy” and Joseph Michael Roberts.

Maria Antonia will be remembered for her devotion to family, Catholic faith and ease with which she warmly engaged with everyone she met and knew.

The family held a funeral Mass on April 23rd. A celebration of her life and memorial will be held at a later date in Miami and Washington D.C.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church 2987 West Flagler Street. Miami, Forida 33125 or to your preferred center for the performing arts.