Rafael Rodriguez, age 74, of Elizabeth, New Jersey passed away on Friday February 21, 2020 with his loving family by his side. Rafael was born October 11, 1945 in Santurce, Puerto Rico to the late Pedro and Carmen Rodriguez. All who had the pleasure of knowing or meeting Rafael knew how special he was. He had the ability to create beautiful relationships with everyone that met him. He had the most vibrant personality that would brighten up a room the moment he stepped foot inside.
Apart from being an amazingly talented artist, Rafael had many other hobbies such as dabbling arts and crafts, wreathe making, and making jewelry. He was an amazing cook that would make these incredible flavors with various spices. A passion of Rafael's was helping the local individuals in the community through the Red Ribbon Fellowship, which he was the founder of. This organization was created to help individuals affect by HIV and how to live with HIV.
Rafael was also a community activist that sat on the board for El Museo del Barrio, a museum dedicated to Hispanic art.
Rafael is survived by his partner of 25 years Thomas McClay,sisters Carmen Loperena and Blanca Aviles, brothers Luis Rodriguez and Victor Manuel Rodriguez.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Visitation on Thursday, February 27, 2020 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Krowicki McCracken Funeral Home, 2124 East Saint George Ave, Linden, NJ. The Funeral Mass will take place Friday, February 28, 2020 ,10:30 AM at First Presbyterian Church, 42 Broad St., Elizabeth, NJ. Interment will follow at the Trinity Episcopal Church and Cemetery, Woodbridge NJ.
**Forever in Our Hearts**
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.krowickifuneralhome.com for the Conway family.
