John-Paul Rodrigues

1980-2005

     On September 9, we were in awe to have our firstborn at Phelps Memorial Hospital, in Sleepy Hollow.  Our dreams were coming true.

     John-Paul went to St. Anns School, where he learned his faith and how to help others, which was something he practiced daily.

     His love for his friends and family was like no other.  He gave it his all in everything he did. He was the most caring, attentive and trustworthy person you could imagine.  Anytime you needed him, just give him a call, he’d be there; that’s what made him extraordinary.

     John-Paul had bright green eyes, and brown hair, and the most contagious smile and laugh imaginable.  In our Sunday family dinners everyone would gather around the table.  John-Paul would have everyone laughing so hard our stomachs would hurt.  He was so entertaining and kept us interested in his stories.

     John-Paul was the big brother to Michael and Amanda.  If the measure of a big brother is how he protects you, then John-Paul was the best.  That’s how Michael got through high school and Amanda became the Little Princess.

     On his headstone we have “The World’s Greatest” because of his favorite song by R.Kelly and ironically the first lyrics of the song say, “If anyone asks you who I am, just tell them I’m that shining star up in the sky.”

     We could go on about John-Paul, but this poem says it all. If someone asked to define the perfect son, I would say:

Search for a young man whose heart is as big as the Grand Canyon.

Search for a young man who thinks only of others.

Search for a young man who does a thousand good deeds each day, while expecting nothing in return.

     Search for a young man who suffers and never complains and when your search is over, if you have found such a young man, then rejoice.

For you have found my son.

     That’s why we promise you, John-Paul, your spirit and your smile will never die.  You will forever be in our hearts.  Until we meet again.  We miss you and love you.     

                                                                                                                     Mom, Dad, Michael, and Amanda