Dulce M. Rodriguez Fernandez

Dulce M. Fernandez, 92, of Solvay, passed away on Monday October 21, 2013, at The Nottingham, surrounded with the love of her entire family. She was born in Havana, Cuba to the late Alejandro and Nieves (Cancela) Rodriguez in 1921.

Dulce was a graduate of the American Dominican Academy (Convent) in Havana. Early in her career she worked as a dental hygienist and then later as a stewardess for Pan American Airways. She married Frank Fernandez in 1946, and returned with him to the United States where she worked as a statistical typist and raised five children who adored her. Dulce was also a very accomplished artist, using the mediums of porcelain china painting and portrait oil painting. She enjoyed swimming, bowling, music and loved to dance.

Dulce was also very generous and supported many philanthropic organizations, including those for sick and indigent children, survivor organizations and world food pantries. Animals held a special place in her heart, and she had an extraordinary connection with them throughout her life.

She held memberships in the St. Cecilia’s Alter and Rosary Society, Piercefield Women’s Club, Solvay Garden Club, Solvay-Geddes Veterans Auxiliary, Solvay Tigers A.C. Auxiliary and American Dominican Academy Alumna.

She is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Frank Fernandez; five children: Frank L. Fernandez (Maureen) of Atlanta, GA, Richard “Jay-Alexander” Fernandez of Miami, FL, Rodney T. Fernandez of Endwell, NY, Dulce M. Fernandez and Georgette E. Fernandez of Syracuse, NY; eight grandchildren: Kristina, Alexandra, Conor, Andrea, Samantha, Stephen, Devon and Claudia; a great granddaughter, Cristiana; her sister, Elena Palma of Tampa, FL; and several nieces and nephews. Dulce’s granddaughter, Keenan Fernandez, predeceased her in 2008.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:30am Friday, October 25th at St. Cecilia Church, 1001 Woods Rd, Solvay. A private Rite of Committal and burial will follow in Assumption Cemetery, Syracuse.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Dulce’s memory to her granddaughter’s public charity, founded to provide food and nutrition to indigent children throughout the world. This may be done at either www.keenanskids.org, or to Keenan’s Kids, 3955 Northside Dr., NW, Atlanta, GA 30342.

Online condolences may be offered at www.bagozzitwins.com.