Maria Victoria Rodríguez

Maria Victoria Rodríguez, 64, of New Haven, CT, died peacefully on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at Yale-New Haven Hospital, St. Raphael Campus with her loving family by her side. She was the beloved wife of thirty years to Miguel Angel Bonilla. Maria was born in New Haven on June 29, 1961, a daughter of Sylvia Rivera of West Palm Beach, FL and the late Herman Rodríguez Colón, and was a life-long New Haven resident. 

Maria was one of the most caring and faithful souls one could ever meet. She had a heart that brought her family together, especially during the holidays, creating memories that will be forever cherished. Her warmth, kindness, and laughter filled every room she entered. Maria was married for many years, and built a life filled with love and devotion. She also had a deep love for her dogs. Ryder was her loyal companion, always by her side, bringing her comfort and joy. Before Ryder, she cherished Bo, who passed away earlier, but always remained in her heart.

From a very young age, Maria faced life with extraordinary strength. Despite receiving a difficult diagnosis at just nine years old, she never allowed it to define her or limit her dreams. She lived with courage, grace and determination. She dedicated nearly thirty years of her life serving with the City of New Haven, Board of Education, where she made a lasting difference in the lives of so many. Her dedication, compassion, and strong work ethic were truly inspiring. Maria was deeply loved by her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her. Her legacy of love, strength, and faith will live on forever. She will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

In addition to her husband and her mother, Maria is survived by her step-daughter, Virgen (Shane) Stewart of Sanford, FL, thirteen sisters, Igdalia (Mike Vázquez) Rodríguez, Wanda Rodríguez, Miriam (Carlos Vázquez) Rodríguez, Myrna (José Villa) Rodríguez, Mildred Zayas, Maritza Zayas, Jacqueline (Fernando Metichce) Rodríguez, Linda McMillan, Carmen McMillan and Yolanda (Ben Díaz) Rodríguez, all of Philadelphia, PA, Jeanette Montalvo of West Palm Beach, FL, Maritza (Daniel) Encarnación of West Haven, and Claritza Rodríguez of Reading, PA, five brothers, Elmer (Lillian Torres) Rodríguez, Herman (Javier Bello) McMillan and Ricardo (Maria) Rodríguez of Philadelphia, and Robert Maldonado and George (Windy) Maldonado of West Palm Beach, and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was predeceased by her sister Yvette Estela.

Maria's family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday, February 21st from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Washington Memorial Funeral Home, 4 Washington Ave., North Haven. A funeral service will take place at the funeral home at 5:00 p.m. Burial will be private. washingtonmemorialfh.com 

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