Carmen Frates

Carmen (Rodriguez) Frates, age 78, of Dorchester, MA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 14, 1946, in Arroyo, Puerto Rico, Carmen was a cherished daughter of the late Pedro Rodriguez and Inez Morales. 

Throughout her life, she was known for her warm spirit and strong work ethic, having dedicated a significant portion of her career as a seamstress for a local garment manufacturer.Carmen's legacy continues through her loving family. 

She is survived by her four siblings: Miguel Reyes, Gloria Cordero, Margarita Ortiz, and Rafael Reyes. As a devoted mother, she leaves behind four children: Jesse Velez, who is married to Rhonda, Cecilia Rivera, Patricia Frates, and John Frates IV. Carmen was also a proud grandmother to fourteen grandchildren: Danyle, Lee, Kyle, Tabitha, Shane, Sabrina, Angelique, Danielle, Destiny, Cordelia, Darien, John John V, Aiden, and Haylee. In addition, she was blessed with fifteen great-grandchildren: Isaiah, Laryah, Christopher, Landon, Ava, Laynah, Elijah, Nyalie’se, Ashyah, Thailen, Skylar, Naveya, Olivia, Jayden, and Deziyah.

Carmen was predeceased by her cherished son, Rodney Velez; her sister, Juanita Reyes; and her niece, Isabel Cordero, along with two nephews, Jose Cordero and Rafael Reyes Jr. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege to know her.

Private funeral arrangements that have been entrusted to Perry Funeral Home, located at 111 Dartmouth Street, New Bedford.