Ms. Phyllis May Rodney
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Phyllis's obituary
Phyllis May Rodney
April 4, 1943 – December 25, 2024
Phyllis May Rodney, a devoted Christian, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Christmas Day—a holiday she cherished for its celebration of Christ's birth and the love it brought into her home. Born on April 4, 1943, in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, she was the cherished daughter of William and Louise McDonald. Her life was a testament to unwavering faith, love, and generosity.
Phyllis approached each day with joy and a heart full of faith. A longtime member of West Ridge Church, she expressed her love for worship through her slightly off-key yet heartfelt singing every Sunday—a reminder that true worship comes from the heart.
For over 30 years, Phyllis served as a home health registered nurse in Bloomfield, Connecticut, providing compassionate care to countless individuals and families. Her work reflected her nurturing spirit and deep commitment to helping others in their time of need.
Her story is one of extraordinary sacrifice and determination. In pursuit of the American dream, Phyllis left her beloved children in the care of her loving parents in Jamaica while she worked tirelessly in the United States to build a foundation for their future. Her sacrifices bore fruit when she reunited her family in America, fulfilling her dream of providing them with greater opportunities and a better life.
Phyllis had a larger-than-life presence, defined by her impeccable faith, sharp fashion sense, and generous heart. She often wired money to support family and friends in Jamaica and offered endless encouragement through daily WhatsApp calls. Whether sharing advice, offering prayers, or lending a helping hand, she touched countless lives with her kindness. Her home was often filled with merchandise she intended to send to Jamaica—a testament to her giving spirit.
In her later years, Phyllis faced dementia with grace and resilience, leaning on her deep faith and the love of her family. She passed away due to an advanced brain tumor, finding eternal rest on Christmas Day—a day she adored for its celebration of Christ’s birth.
Phyllis is preceded in death by her parents, William and Louise McDonald; her sisters, Lucille (Ernest) Allen, Gloria Brissett, and Rose McDonald; and her nieces, Joy Martin and Elizabeth Martin.
She is survived by her four children: Cecille Angela McDonald of Brooklyn, NY; Michelle McLaren (Leaford) of Manchester, CT; Carol Burrows (John III) of Marietta, GA; and Michael Rodney of Hartford, CT. She also leaves behind eleven grandchildren: Randy Hunter (Lory), Kaschiev Hunter, Binijua Burton, Leaden Anderson (Kei’zon), Angelica Anderson, LeAnn McLaren, Marcia McLaren, Danielle Burrows, Michael Rodney Jr., Miles Rodney, and Mason Rodney; six great-grandchildren: Amadii Anderson, Keilee Anderson, Leelyn Anderson, Elijah Hunter, Joshua Hunter, and Eden Anderson.
Phyllis is lovingly remembered by her brothers, George McDonald (Sonia) and Neville McDonald (Valda); sisters, Iris McDonald, Gwendolyn Ricketts, and Avis Smith (Lawrence); and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Special mention goes to Carmen Johnson Hylton of Montego Bay, Ceylyn Anderson, Gracie Johnson, Merriline Johnson, Joy Mullings, and Vetella Cunningham, whose love and support left an indelible mark on her life.
A true Proverbs 31 woman, Phyllis embodied the scripture: “Strength and honor are her clothing.” Firmly rooted in Godly principles and her Jamaican heritage, she often said, “To see me and to live with me are two different things,” a reflection of her candid wisdom and humor.
Beyond her faith and devotion to family, Phyllis found immense joy in cooking, reading her Bible, and sharing God’s word. Her home radiated warmth, laughter, and love, leaving a lasting impression on all who entered. Known for her wit and wisdom, her advice often left you thinking—and chuckling—all at once.
Phyllis’s favorite sayings, such as “No worry yourself, time is the master of all things,” and “You never see smoke without fire,” were delivered with her characteristic charm and became guiding principles for many.
She loved fiercely and passionately, encouraging her family and friends with heartfelt words of wisdom like, “Speak the truth in love” and “Whatever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” These values were the foundation of her life and the legacy she leaves behind.
Phyllis nurtured her family with love, prayer, and wisdom, finding her greatest joy in their happiness and achievements. Her favorite Bible verses—Psalm 23, Psalm 91, Proverbs 31, and 1 Corinthians 13—continue to inspire and comfort her loved ones.
Phyllis’s love for the Lord, her family, and Christmas will forever be cherished. She is now at rest in the presence of her Savior, her faith fulfilled on the day she loved most.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
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