Obituary

Ivette Mercedes Rodriguez Maldonado
June 4, 1952 – August 17, 2025

Ivette Mercedes Rodriguez Maldonado, 73, of Smyrna, Delaware, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025. Born on June 4, 1952, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, she grew up in Cataño and later moved to Delaware in 1988, where she built a life rooted in family and faith.

She was the beloved daughter of the late Teodoro Rodriguez and Mercedes Maldonado, and the oldest of six siblings. In 1971, she met Julio Rivera Ocasio in her hometown, and together they shared many years of love and companionship.

Ivette was a devoted homemaker whose greatest joy was caring for her family. She poured her heart into everything she did—whether crafting, sewing, fishing, thrifting, cooking delicious meals, or tending to her birds and garden. She loved singing rancheras and filling her home with music and warmth.

She is survived by her daughter, Edna Diaz; three grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, Joel Ocasio.

Known for her strong will and unwavering love, Ivette was a protector, a God-fearing woman, and a source of strength for those around her. She was also thoughtful, spirited, and brought laughter to her loved ones.

Family and friends are invited to a viewing on Monday, August 25, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 12:00 p.m. at Krienen-Grififth Funeral Home in Elsmere, DE.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Delaware Center for Cognitive Aging Research.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.


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