Esther G.

Rodriguez

In Loving Memory Of

Esther G. Rodriguez

July 20, 1926 - April 22, 2026

Esther G. Rodriguez went to be with her Lord and Savior on April 22, 2026. She has entered her heavenly home and is reunited with those loved ones who have preceded her in death:  her parents, Guadalupe and Anita G. Garcia, her beloved husband of 62 years, Gregorio Rodriguez, infant granddaughter, Marisa Yvette Palos, her sister, Olivia Loya and other cherished members of the family.

Esther was born on July 20, 1926, to Guadalupe and Anita G. Garcia in Harlingen, TX, the oldest of three daughters.  She attended Harlingen public schools through the third grade and completed her education at Valley Institute in Pharr, TX and Holding Institute in Laredo, TX, both Methodist boarding schools.  She married Gregorio Rodriguez on August 18, 1946, in Harlingen, TX where they resided and raised their 3 children.  She was her husband's partner as owners and operators of Gregorio Rodriguez Grocery and Market until 1966, the year she was employed by Valley Baptist Medical Center.  She retired from Valley Baptist Medical Center in 1996 after 30 years of service. She was forever grateful to everyone at Valley Baptist Medical Center who gave her the opportunity to further her education through work experience.  She often said, "I love my job and wish I were younger so I could work many more years." She was an exceptional employee who performed way beyond what was required.  She was honored to have had the opportunity to mentor and supervise many employees during her tenure at Valley Baptist Medical Center.

She was a wonderful and loving wife, mother, sister, mother-in-law, aunt, friend, grandmother and great-grandmother.  Her most notable personal qualities were those of being a dedicated wife and mother, gracious host and a generous soul.  She welcomed one and all into her home whether it was as a place to gather family or friends and/or as a place of refuge for anyone who needed a place to stay for a day or for years.  Love, warmth and food always abounded in her home.  She gave selflessly so that those dear to her, whether family or friend, could have what they needed.  Her joy was spending time with her family, especially her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom she loved beyond words.  She was a woman of strength, both spiritually and physically, unwavering in her love for her Lord Jesus, husband and family.

During her lifetime, she was a member of Primera Iglesia Bautista in Harlingen where she served faithfully for many years as secretary, Sunday School teacher and as a member of the choir. After retirement, she volunteered at Valley Baptist Medical Center, James Bowie Elementary School, and provided transportation for friends in need of getting to appointments.

In April of 2016, she moved to Fort Worth, TX to be closer to family.  Moving to Fort Worth was one of the best decisions of her life!  The immediate and extended family were able to visit her often and lavish her with lots of love and attention.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff and caregivers at The Ridglea Assisted Living, Laura's Home Healthcare and Serinity Place for their love and care for Esther.

Esther is survived by her children Dalinda N. Avila (Lorenzo) of Dallas, TX, Gregorio Rodriguez, Jr. (Betsy) of Arlington, TX and Lillian Palos (Armando) of Fort Worth, TX.  She is also survived by six grandchildren, Greg Rodriguez, III (Angie) of Plano, TX, Elizabeth Cryer (Benjamin) of Chicago, IL, Lorenzo Heli Avila of Arlington, TX, Delia Rios (Orlando) of Duncanville, TX, Benjamin Palos (Aliye) of Napa, CA and Adrian Palos (Brianna) of Abilene, TX.  She has 8 great-grandchildren, Ozandro and Idaliz Rios, Landry and Liberty Rodriguez, Ginny, Arthur, Oliver and Amos Palos.  She is also survived by her sister, Rosa Garcia Wilhite of Temple, TX and many beloved family members.

Honored to serve as pallbearers will be Gregorio Rodriguez, Jr., Greg Rodriguez, III, Lorenzo Heli Avila, Benjamin Palos, Adrian Palos and Orlando Rios.  Serving as Honorary Pallbearers are Benjamin Cryer and all her nephews and great-nephews whom she loved dearly.

The family desires to express their sincere appreciation to all who have shared condolences, comforting words, fond memories and prayers at this time of loss.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home in Harlingen, TX. Visitation will be held Saturday May 16th, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Chapel Service at 11:00 a.m. with interment to follow at Restlawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting Memorial donations be made to charity of their choice.

With profound love and remembrance, the family of Esther G. Rodriguez , have entrusted her funeral arrangements to Lenny Elizondo, funeral director/owner of Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home, 1002 East Harrison Ave. Harlingen, Texas 78550. You may contact us at (956)364-2444 or visit us at www.trinityfunerals.com