Estella V. Rodriguez

With deep sadness and tender remembrance, we announce the peaceful passing of Estella V. Rodriguez (née Villarreal) on August 6, 2026, in the comfort of her residence in Alto Bonito/Rio Grande City. Born on August 23, 1952, in Taft, Texas, Estella’s life was one of unwavering devotion, kindness, and love—a legacy written in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Estella’s journey was rooted in family, faith, and perseverance. She was a gentle soul whose compassion touched not just her closest loved ones, but also her wider community. Those who knew Estella recall her steady strength and gracious spirit—a steadfast presence through joys and challenges alike.

She is survived by the love of her life, her husband Rogelio “Roger” Rodriguez, whose hand she held through many seasons. Together they nurtured a close and loving family. Estella’s memory will forever live on in her loving daughter, Iliana (Jose Angel) Navarro Jr,  who cherished her guidance and warmth. Her granddaughters, Vianey C. Navarro and Cassidy G. Navarro, will remember their grandmother’s cheerfulness, thoughtful wisdom, and the safety of her unconditional love.

Estella’s roots ran deep, and her ties with her siblings were some of life’s most cherished blessings. She is lovingly remembered by her siblings—brothers Juan (Victorina) Villarreal, Joey (Diana) Villarreal Sr., and Jaime Villarreal, alongside her sisters Elvira Villarreal, Irene Villarreal, and Elena Villarreal (Enrique) Hernandez. Each one will carry forward treasured memories of laughter shared, traditions honored, and support given in both ordinary and extraordinary moments.

Estella’s journey was marked by both the joy of union and the pain of loss. She is preceded in death by her beloved father, Juan Villarreal, her dear son Jose G. Cantu, and her daughter Delia Cantu. Their memory is woven deeply into the tapestry of Estella’s heart and into the enduring stories that her family will tell for generations.

As her loved ones gather, united in gratitude for Estella’s life, services to honor and celebrate her memory will begin with visitation on Saturday, August 9, from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Sanchez Funeral Home, 301 East Second St., Rio Grande City, TX. A rosary will be recited at 6:00 p.m. During these hours, friends and family will share stories, tears, and the comfort of community.

Visitation will resume on Sunday, August 10, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at Sanchez Funeral Home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Family Catholic Church, 107 Pvt Lazaro Solis St., La Grulla, TX, at 10:00 a.m. Estella will be laid to rest at Ruben Solis Cemetery in La Grulla, Texas, with interment to follow at 11:00 a.m.

To know Estella was to experience sincerest affection, a radiant spirit, and the embrace of true loyalty. Her memory remains a blessing, echoing in every life she touched and in the hearts of those who miss her dearly. As we say goodbye, we hold tight to her legacy—a reminder of the power of love, the importance of family, and the gift of a gentle soul.

May Estella V. Rodriguez rest in everlasting peace, surrounded by the love she so freely gave.