Jose Alfredo Rodriguez

Jose Alfredo Rodriguez, 89, of Lincoln, Delaware, passed away peacefully on Friday,
February 20, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Puerto Rico, he was the beloved son of the late Alfredo Pacheco and Gloria Rodriguez. 

Jose built a long and dedicated career as a machine operator with Draper Canning - King Cole in Milton, Delaware, where he worked faithfully for 36 years before retiring.
Baseball was one of Jose’s greatest passions. A talented second baseman and shortstop, he proudly led his team in Puerto Rico to a championship title. After moving to the United States, he continued sharing his love of the game, playing softball with the King Cole team. The game remained close to his heart throughout his life.

Whether before or after retirement, Jose found joy in life’s simple pleasures — fishing, crabbing, and hosting backyard barbecues. No matter the occasion, he loved playing music, gathering with friends, and celebrating life with those he cared about. You could often find him with a beer in hand and a shot of vodka nearby, surrounded by laughter and good company. His circle of friends — including Tony, Papo, Harry, Mickey, Jamie, Davey, Manuel, Pacheco, Ana, and Chancey, among many others — meant the world to him. He was a devoted fan of the Cincinnati Bengals (football), the Cincinnati Reds (baseball), and the New York Knicks (basketball). During every season, he proudly represented his teams, rarely seen without his favorite team hat.

Jose was known for his generosity and compassion. He helped many people as they migrated from Puerto Rico to the United States, assisting them in finding jobs and offering a place to stay until they were established. His giving spirit extended beyond his immediate community; he was also a proud supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, believing deeply in helping children and families in need. He will be remembered for his kindness, quiet strength, unwavering loyalty, and the deep love he held for his family, his heritage, and the game he cherished. In addition to his parents, Jose was preceded in death by his brothers, Nelson and Porfirio, and his sisters, Monce, Gladys, and Irma.

He is survived by his sister, Aida; his Children, Gregory, Wendy, Jose, Jacqueline, Walter (Victoria), Jenice, Alfredo, Pamela (Emerson), Adele, Eva and stepson Kevin; his cherished Grandchildren, Shenika (Donziel), Walter Angelo, India, Nina, Celci, Alexis, Destiny, Ashlyn, Savannah, Chassidy, Alyssa, Jasmine, Jace, Gavin, Cameron, Brooklyn, Aiden, Devon, Ava, Julian, Braelynn, and Avion; and his beloved Great-grandchildren, Tayvon, Niyha, Nivaeya, La’Niyah, Yamaris, Audrey, Dontez, Noah, Greyson, and Noelle, along with three additional great-grandchildren eagerly awaited, a host of Nieces, Nephews and a friend of the family, Krissy and her children (Bryce,Jayla).

Jose’s legacy of love, generosity, and joy for life will live on in all who knew him.

A viewing will be held from 6 - 7:30 pm on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at the Lofland Funeral Home, 102 Lakeview Avenue, Milford where a time of sharing will take place at 7:30 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 11 am on Friday, March 6, 2026 at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church, 506 Seabury Avenue, Milford. Burial will follow in Milford Community Cemetery, Mlford. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made to Jose's favorite charity, St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place • Memphis, TN 38105

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