Compton Rodrigues

Compton Clement Rodrigues was born on April 29th, 1941 to the union of Randolph and Mabel Rodrigues in 60 Pike Street, Kitty, British Guiana, South America. Compton received his elementary education in Kitty?s public school system. At the age of 16, he immigrated to New York City and attended Boys High School in Brooklyn. After graduating high school, he attended the School of Visual Arts where he studied graphic design. He also attended the Art Student League of New York, where he studied fine art. His course of study led him to a career in graphic arts and design. His versatility led him to work as a freelance Layout and Design Artist for several companies such as Black Enterprise Magazine, Essence Magazine and Allied Graphics. During the summer of 1976, he attended McGill University in Montreal Canada. He graduated in Graphic Arts. He was the Art Director at the Montreal Star Newspaper. Later that same year, his work took him back to Guyana, where he held the position of Art Director of Design and Graphic. There he had the opportunity to design the Commemorative Postage stamp for the 10th Commonwealth Science Council Meeting, held that year. Compton has paintings in Guyana?s National Collection. In 1981 he returned to New York where he held the position as Manager of Business Communications/Art Director for Shearson Lehman, American Express. He also participated in various art exhibits such as the Washington Square outdoor exhibit. In 1994, he retired and relocated to Kissimmee, Florida. In his leisure time he enjoyed socializing with his many friends, painting fine arts and listening to jazz. Compton had the ability to cultivate a harmony between his mind and his heart in fractions of a second. He did not get frustrated easily. He was a peaceful person, with a calmness you could feel instantly; peace, joy, contentment?that sense of tranquility that money can?t buy. Compton always liked to sit down and eat Sunday dinner?which was a big event. He was just as creative in the kitchen as he was on the canvas. He was also known as a "Mr. Fix It", was very helpful and could never say no to anyone. He was a true aristocratic gentleman with a tranquil spirit, sharp mind and keen sense of humor. Compton quietly departed this life on Friday, July 16, 2010. He leaves to cherish his memory?his children, Debbie (NY), Christopher (OH) and four grandchildren; his sisters, Eileen (GA) and Sheila (GA); his brothers, Frankie (FL) and Joe (FL), and other relatives such as nieces, nephews, cousins as well as many friends.

Compton Rodrigues

April 29, 1941 - July 16, 2010