Rhonda Lynne Tirfagnehu

Rhonda "Ronnie" Lynne Tirfagnehu, a beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Daughter, Sister, Aunt, Cousin, and cherished friend, peacefully passed away on December 13th, 2023, at the age of 66 in Orlando, Florida.

Rhonda was born in Tarrytown, New York, on February 5th, 1957. She was the youngest daughter of Inez and Gordon McDaniel. Her older sisters, Eugenia "Tid" Brown and Sharon "Sherry" Hollis, created a nurturing foundation for Rhonda's early years.

Growing-up in Elmsford, New York, Rhonda attended Alexander Hamilton High School, where she was a bright and diligent student that skipped the 10th grade before graduating at the age of 16.

Her educational pursuits continued at the State University of New York (SUNY) at New Paltz where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics.

Rhonda met her husband, Solomon “Solo” Tirfagnehu, in college. Their marriage of over 42 years was sealed on September 5th, 1981, at St. Francis & St. Martha’s Episcopal Church in White Plains, New York. Rhonda not only embraced her role as Solo’s wife but embraced his Ethiopian family and culture; starting relationships that would last her life.

Rhonda visited Ethiopia by herself before exchanging vows with Solo to meet his family; which was very important to her. Despite the language barrier, she was welcomed into Solo’s family with open arms, receiving an outpouring of love during her visit. This trip solidified the bond between Rhonda and Solo’s family, as they became one family.

Rhonda's professional journey was marked by compassion and dedication. As a Social Worker for Child Protective Services in Westchester County, New York, she tirelessly visited homes in Mount Vernon, Yonkers, White Plains, and throughout the county, offering support to those in need. Her commitment to the well-being of the neediest children and hard work earned her recognition and a promotion to a supervisory role at CPS.

Rhonda was a member of the National Association of Black Social Workers, where she found ways to additionally serve her community and workforce. Rhonda took pride in witnessing her daughter emulate her path, achieving a Master’s of Social Work before pursuing her own career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Rhonda's love for music played a very important role in her life. She was a fan of various artists from different genres of music, from Paul Simon's "Graceland” Album, to Bob Marley, Earth Wind & Fire, The Ohio Players, George Benson, Sade, Al Jarreau, and Kenny G, music was a constant companion throughout her life. She would reminisce about witnessing Bob Marley perform at Madison Square Garden and Paul Simon perform at his legendary concert in Central Park, in which she attended with her husband and three young kids, these were memories that were etched in her heart forever. In addition to her love for music, she was a proud of member for over 20 years at Grace Episcopal Church in White Plains, NY which held a special place in her heart.

As a mother, Rhonda created a rich tradition of family adventures. She instilled a love for music, sports, and cultural events, taking her family to Kensico Dam Plaza, Yankee and Shea Stadiums, Madison Square Garden for Knicks games, and Giants Stadium for HBCU Classic Football games. Summers in New York were a vibrant canvas painted with trips to Saratoga Jazz Festival, Jones Beach, Playland, Broadway shows, Atlantic City, City Island, the Bronx Zoo, and reunions with family and friends in Cape May, NJ, Washington D.C., Florida, and cruises. Rhonda's infectious spirit turned ordinary moments into extraordinary adventures.

Upon retirement, Rhonda embarked on a new chapter in sunny Florida, surrounded by the warmth of her loving family. Her days were filled with joyous family gatherings, travel, scrapbooking, shopping expeditions, jazz concerts, and the simple pleasures of beach outings. Her enthusiasm for discovering hidden treasures during shopping sprees remained undiminished, and she would eagerly share her finds, exclaiming, "you wouldn't believe the deals I found today!" or, "I got you something I think you're going to like."

Rhonda's legacy is one of resilience, love, and made a lasting impact on those who knew her. Preceded in death by her loving parents, Inez and Gordon McDaniel, and her beloved sister, Sherry, she leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth.

A visitation for Rhonda will be held Saturday, January 6, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Woodlawn Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, FL 34734. A funeral service will occur Saturday, January 6, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, FL 34734. A committal service will occur Saturday, January 6, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, FL 34734.

Rhonda leaves behinds to cherish her lasting memory her devoted spouse, Solomon (Solo) Tirfagnehu, her dear sister, Eugenia "Tid" Brown (Al Brown), her dedicated children Samson Tirfagnehu (Jodi-Kay), Daniel Tirfagnehu (Janelle), Sabrina Crim, and her cherished grandchildren Jameson and Avery Crim. She is also survived by a host of loving nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.