Onelia Rodriguez

Onelia Rodriguez, age 96, passed away peacefully on April 19th with her loving husband, Ramon of 72 years at her bedside.  Onelia was the youngest of eight children born to Ladislao and Maria Rodriguez.   She was born and raised in Matanzas, Cuba.  

In 1953, she married her life partner, Ramon and they had three children, Haydee Lourdes, Ramon Francisco, and Joseph Vandeline. 

In 1962, the family moved to the United States to escape the communist regime of Fidel Castro, and live in freedom.    The family lived in Connecticut for a period of 3 years before moving to Morristown in 1965.  Morristown has been their home since.   

Onelia studied to be a teacher in Cuba, and continued to work in the Hamblen County schools as a substitute teacher over 20 years. 

Onelia was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church for over 60 years, and still participated in Mass and Communion services.  Her faith was her anchor, and she and Ramon were prayer warriors for her children, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friends and family.  She was proud to be an American, and loved the country that welcomed her and her family to live a better life.  She never forgot the fear and struggles of living under a Communist regime and never forgot the country that allowed her family to live in freedom and work for the American dream.

Onelia was the ultimate “mama-bear”, and fiercely protective of her family.   She did not let her limited English-speaking skills deter her from defending her family. 

Onelia was proceeded in death by both parents as well as sisters, Clarita Torres and Edelmira Rivas as well as brothers, Jose Rodriguez, Mario Rodriguez, Armando Rodriguez, and Arsenio Rodriguez. 

She is survived by her husband, Ramon, and (3) children – Haydee Robinson (William), Ramon Francisco (Cindy Hill), and Joseph (Pilar) as well as Grandchildren Luke Robinson, Daniel Robinson, Sara Hunt, Elizabeth Rodriguez, Nicholas, Christopher & Benjamin Rodriguez.  Great Grandchildren include Ava Lily, William Blayne, Lola Grace Robinson, and Eleanor Jane and Clara June Robinson.  She is also survived by her sister, Maria Cruz of Fort Lauderdale, FL.  and dear nieces and nephews. 

Her funeral will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church on Friday, May 2, 2025 with visitation from 11:00 a.m.  12:00 p.m. and Mass beginning at 12:00 p.m. 

Arrangements by Stetzer-Bales Funeral Home.

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