Betixsa "Sonnie" Rodriguez of Bellmawr, NJ formerly of Brooklyn, New York, age 64, passed away peacefully at home on December 8, 2023. She was surrounded by her loving family and friends.

Sonnie was born in Puerto Rico, then shortly after, her family moved to Brooklyn, NY where she was raised until the age of 18. She enlisted in the US Navy and moved up through the ranks to become an ASM3 3rd Class Petty Officer Mechanical Technician serving for 4 years. After being Honorably Discharged from the Navy, Sonnie attended Jefferson University earning a Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree in Science and Microbiology Research. Sonnie became a Stem Cell Researcher at Coriell Institute for Medical Research.

Sonnie had a passion for physical fitness and went into competitive body building. Her other passions and interests included photography, camping, fishing, making jewelry, gardening and butterfly raising. She enjoyed spending time at the beach. As an avid animal lover, she raised six Shih Tzus and a kitty of her own. She was also a member of the Shih Tzu Facebook fan page.

Sonnie is survived by her daughter Michaela and her partner Roseanne as well as many nieces, nephews, family and friends. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
She is predeceased by her sisters Wanda Rodriguez, Ada Abrea and brother Thomas Rodriguez.

There will be a Visitation from 10am-12pm on Wednesday December 13 at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, RUNNEMEDE. Followed by a Memorial Service at 12pm-12:30pm

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sonnie's name to the Lupus Foundation of America www.lupus.org, ASPCA www.aspca.org or a Nature Preserve of your choice.

Services