Nereida "Nellie" Rodriguez

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Nereida lived a life illuminated by warmth, resilience, and boundless devotion to her family and all whose lives she touched.

With profound reverence and loving remembrance, we mourn the passing of Nereida "Nellie" Rodriguez, who departed this life on July 25, 2026, in Orlando, Florida, at the age of 88. Born on August 29, 1937, Nereida lived a life illuminated by warmth, resilience, and boundless devotion to her family and all whose lives she touched.

Nereida’s story is one of quiet strength and unwavering love. To her family, she was the cherished cornerstone—a beloved wife to Samuel Sr. Rodriguez, with whom she shared a partnership built on unwavering loyalty and mutual respect. Together, they navigated life’s joys and trials, creating a tapestry of memories that are treasured beyond measure.

She was a devoted mother to her sons, Daniel Rodriguez and Samuel Jr. Rodriguez, and took great pride in their accomplishments and the families they built. Her compassion and guidance extended gracefully to Linda Rodriguez, her loving daughter-in-law, and to her beloved grandchildren: Kenneth Barbosa II, Justin Daniel Rodriguez, Samantha Lee Rodriguez, and Lauren Michelle Rodriguez. The legacy of affection, curiosity, and kindness that she fostered in each generation is a testament to her nurturing spirit.

Her bonds of kinship extended further, encompassing her sister's Lucy Torres, Jenny Perez and a circle of nieces and nephews—Jennifer Perez, Christopher Perez, Joyce McCormick, Elaine Vega, Gary Seda, Wendy Sheraton, Anthony Petrelli, Wilson Desoto, and Richard ONeill. Each carries forward a part of Nereida’s unwavering spirit, her wisdom, and her gentle joy in life.

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Her compassion and guidance extended gracefully to Linda Rodriguez, her loving daughter-in-law, and to her beloved grandchildren.

In honoring Nereida, we also remember those family members who preceded her in passing: her beloved parents, Valerie and Juan Torres; her siblings Hilda Desoto, Aida Seda, and Gilbert Torres; her nieces and nephews Julie Vega, Gibert Jr., Albert Torres, and Dennis Desoto. Nereida’s heart forever held a place for these departed souls, and the ties of familial love that connected them will endure through the generations.

Throughout her long and remarkable journey, Nereida was a model of dignity and quiet generosity. Her laughter filled homes and her words of encouragement uplifted all who came to her in times of need. Whether in moments of celebration or challenge, Nereida’s steadfastness anchored her family and friends, leaving a legacy that endures beyond her earthly years.

A funeral service to honor Nereida’s life will be held on August 1, 2026, from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, Winter Park, located at 3806 Howell Branch Road, Winter Park, FL 32792. The service will also be available via livestream for those unable to attend in person. On August 2, 2026, at 12:00 p.m., Nereida will be laid to rest at the City of Tavares Cemetery, 2055 Dead River Road, Tavares, FL 32778.

In our sadness, we find comfort in the enduring light of Nereida Rodriguez’s memory: her gentle strength, her boundless love, and the indelible mark she leaves upon the hearts of all who knew her. May her life continue to inspire those she cherished and those who cherish her still.