August 28, 1947 - May 19, 2020 Clara Augustina Rodriguez, age 72, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her own home, surrounded by her family on Tuesday, May 19, 2020. She was born on August 28, 1947 in Casa Grande, Arizona, to Ralph and Rosa Samaniego. Preceded in death by her parents Ralph and Rosa Samaniego, her brothers Sam and Felix Samaniego and sister Rosie Samaniego-Chacon. She graduated from Banning High School in 1966, attended Mt. San Jacinto Community College shortly after and met her spouse Erasmo Rodriguez, whom she was married to for 51 years. While married, they moved to Riverside and she found a job working for Riverside County Office of Education at Riverside Juvenile Hall corrections facility at F.H. Butterfield School in 1970. While working she obtained her bachelors degree at UC Riverside and teaching credentials at UC Irvine and had her daughter, Eileen Rodriguez in June of 1979. She worked for RCOE as a teacher for 47 years at F.H. Butterfield School. She was very well respected by her students, fellow peers and staff. Clara had an amazing ability to teach and reach her students. She was a breath of fresh air and very kind and comforting to everyone who came in her presence. She is survived by her spouse, Erasmo Rodriguez, her daughter Eileen Rodriguez, her brother Jerry Samaniego, sister-in-law Helen Samaniego, and many godchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends whose lives she touched. Her family will be holding a viewing ceremony/rosary on Monday, June 8, 2020. Acheson and Graham Garden of Prayer Mortuary 7944 Magnolia Ave Riverside, CA 92504

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Published by The Press-Enterprise on Jun. 4, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Clara Rodriguez

Sponsored by Acheson & Graham Garden of Prayer Mortuary.

9 Entries

June 6, 2020

My deepest sympathies.May the God of all comfort strengthen the entire family during this time of sorrow. Always remember that God keeps in his memory those whom we lose because they are precious in his eyes (Psalms 116:15)

Roxanne Torres

June 5, 2020

Clara was an amazing teacher and peer. I worked at Riverside Juvenile Hall with her as a line staff, and she was the teacher. She had a special way of working with at-risk youth! She was firm yet showed compassion. At one point she had inspired me to go into teaching! I will never forget the hard work she put into the Halloween show with the kids using the Thriller song, and having the kids dance just like the zombies in the music video. I know there are so many kids she impacted. Your beautiful heart and friendly spirit will always be remembered ❤

Monica Cervantes

June 4, 2020

Ms. Clara, you were such an amazing teacher at Riverside Juvenile Hall. I assisted in monitoring your classroom as a group counselor during my service working with the Probation Dept. You were well respected and loved by your students. You always wanted the best for them, and you were demanding as an educator. You will be missed, and may you be at peace. Many Blessings

Debra Sacks

June 4, 2020

I met Clara in 2008. She was lovely inside and out! I admired her desire to work with our youth. Today, we call it being in the WITH Box with students-high support with high expectations. Some kids think we might even love them. Its the best place to be. Clara was there all the way. She never ignored them, nor babied them, nor treated them punitively. She tested them like her own. She made them accountable. Cheers to educators like Clara. Hugs to the family. God bless!
Debra Sacks

RAQUEL Westerman

June 4, 2020

My sincerest condolences to the family. Clara was such an amazing person, our RCOE students loved her. She had the utmost patience with them. May her memories bring peace to your hearts. REST IN PEACE!

Maria Lyons

June 4, 2020

In loving memory of a wonderful person. You will be missed by many of us.

Shirley adsit

June 4, 2020

She cared about everyone she came in contact with so loving,such a terrific friend. She will be missed by anyone who knew her. God bless her family ,I am so sorry for your loss.

Shirley adsit

June 4, 2020

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Stacie Rasmussen

June 4, 2020

Clara was the best. She was the kindest, smartest, most loving and supportive person. I will remember the love she gave me and the lessons she taught me, and the legacy of literature that she bestowed upon thousands of kids. And I will always, always remember her Spanish rice recipe.

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