Jean Rodriguez

Jean Huggins was born on September 24, 1933, in Trinidad, WI to the late Constance and
Malcolm Huggins. Jean was one of three children born of this union. She will be greeted in heaven
by her parents and her siblings, Aletta Cox, and Hugh Huggins. As a young woman, Jean attended
Tranquility Girls School in St. James, Trinidad. She furthered her education with a concentration
on Secretarial Studies.
In 1967, Jean migrated to The United States of America settling in New York City, and finally
making Brooklyn her home. During those years, she continued her career as an Administrative
Assistant working for the Genetic Foundation, Amniocentesis Department. Eventually her work
ethic and secretarial skills would lead her to a rewarding position at The Teachers Insurance and
Annuity Association of America – the Fortune 100 Company she proudly retired from.
In the early 1970’s after a long courtship, Jean married her Trinidadian sweetheart, Ivan
Rodriguez. Jean was a parent to her niece Janet and her children. Aunty Jean, affectionately called
by everyone, enjoyed the responsibility of raising her grand/great grandnieces and nephews. One
thing though, she did not shy away from doing is speaking her mind; she would out-fuss you. She
remained a prominent figure in their family and later found great joy tending to the youngest
additions - her two great nieces until her final days.
In the late 70’s, Jean converted to Catholicism; she was an avid church goer along-side her
niece Janet; attending all activities in the church. She was a devoted member of St. Gregory, The
Great Roman Catholic Church. She regularly attended service and bible study. Jean was a part
of the Church Prayer Group and served on The Rosary Society where she also took meeting
minutes. Also, bringing her talents to the church, she volunteered in a leadership role as the lead
secretary for two terms. She loved her church family dearly and they could always count on
seeing her at the many events hosted by the church.
Jean was known to all as a kind and generous woman. Even after her many years in the city, she
still had an appreciation for the simple pleasures of her island life. She would have tea and toast for
breakfast every day without fail. She enjoyed Sunday drives and listening to classic Calypso music,
and while she was in good health, Jean returned to Trinidad every year for Carnival. She also loved
the taste of Trinidadian food and when she cooked her famous Saltfish Buljol, you could tell that it
was prepared with love. When you saw Jean, often, she’d be wearing her favorite color Beige. She
had a timeless elegance that matched her beauty, always wearing a set of pearls, her favorite
luxurious fragrance, Estee Lauder, and her signature burgundy lipstick. She was a woman of style
and grace.
One of the things Jean loved most is family. She was there not only in good times, but she
stood with you during adversity as well. If you were ever in need, you knew that you could always
count on her. Jean will be mourned by niece, Janet Huggins Throne, Gary Throne, and their
children, along with great nieces and nephews, her best friend Pearl, and a host of extended family
members and friends. She has left an indelible mark upon the hearts of those who knew and loved
her. Jean Rodriguez passed away on Wednesday August 25, 2021. She led a humble life of service,
and we find comfort knowing that she is indeed resting in peace.

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