Manuel Carmo Rodrigues aged 87 passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026 surrounded by the love and comfort of his family at Hackensack Hospital. A beloved husband, devoted father, loving grandfather & great grandfather and dear friend. Manuel touched the lives of many with his wisdom, humor and unwavering dedication to helping others. He was born on December 28, 1938, Vilarinho do Bairro, Anadia, Portugal. Manuel came to the US in May 1963 and resided in the Ironbound section of Newark.
Manuel was the eldest of three siblings. Son of the late Josue Rodrigues Cosme & Maria Do Carmo, Sister of Noemia Marques and Deceased sister Maria Amelia do Carmo Rodrigues. Manuel is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years Maria De Fatima Almeida Rodrigues, their 3 children, Manuel Rodrigues, Jr., (and his wife Elvira), Noemia Carvalho, (and her husband Paulo), Gina Rodrigues, four cherished grandchildren: Michael, Steven, Theresa and Raquel and six cherished great grandchildren: Lola, Mika, Ellie, Brody, Chloe and Demi.
Manuel served in the Portuguese military, held multiple businesses, worked in Construction for Local 472 for over 3 decades, had a passion for building and helping his family, he enjoyed spending summers in his homeland Portugal visiting family and friends and became a snowbird which lead to his home in Naples, Florida. He enjoyed helping people in all ways especially his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Visitation will be held at Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 from 4-8 PM. A memorial service to honor Manuel’s life and legacy will be held on Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at 10 AM at St. Cecilia’s Church, 120 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ with a reception to follow. Family and Friends are invited to share stories that reflect the life and legacy of a man who always gave more than he asked in return.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Jude, a cause that Manuel held close to his heart.
Manuel lived with integrity, humility and love. His presence was a guiding light to many and his memory will forever be a blessing.
Manuel’s final resting place will be Naples, Florida. Visitation will be held at the Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens, 525 111th Ave N, Naples, FL 34108 on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 from 3-7 PM following a memorial service at Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 625 111th Ave N, Naples, FL 34108 on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 10 AM, burial will follow at Naples Memorial Gardens located behind the church.
