Yolanda Z. Rodriguez

Yolanda Z. Rodriguez, lovingly known as “Yolie” to her friends and “Yaya” to her grandchildren and family, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas. She was born on September 7, 1953, in San Antonio, where she spent her life rooted in family and faith.

Yolanda was a beautiful soul with the kindest heart, touching everyone she met. She was a proud and dedicated employee of San Antonio ISD for 38 years, spending the majority of her career at Irving Middle School. She took great pride in her work and the relationships she built throughout the district.

After retiring, Yolie treasured the time she spent with her precious grandchildren and family. Being “Yaya” was her greatest joy and proudest role. She had a rare gift — even in her most difficult moments, she chose joy and love.

She will be remembered for her radiant smile, gentle spirit, and sense of humor. Yolanda was deeply loved by all who knew her, and her legacy lives on in the love she gave to everyone she met. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing she is now free from pain and smiling in heaven — just as she always did on earth.

She is preceded in death by her parents, John and Elvia Zatarain, and her sister, Sonia Duran.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Jackie Rodriguez Navar, and son-in-law, Jesus Navar; her cherished grandchildren, Ema and Jesus Navar; her brother, Bob Zatarain and wife Leticia Zatarain; her sister, Irma Zatarain; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

Yolie was a loyal friend and a light in the lives of many. She will be dearly missed and forever loved.

Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, March 3, at St. Luke’s Catholic Church, 4603 Manitou Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78228. The Rosary will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by Mass at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at the Mausoleum at Holy Cross Cemetery, 17501 Nacogdoches Road, San Antonio, Texas 78266.

May she rest in the eternal peace of Christ, reunited with those who have gone before her, and held forever in God’s grace.