Helen Rodriguez

San Tan Valley - Helen Rodriguez joined her siblings, two sons, and granddaughter in heaven on Thursday, January 9, 2025. She is survived by her brother, Raymond (Gwen), her son Pete (Linda), daughter-in-law Emily, eight grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren. Helen, daughter of Francesca and Juan Mendez, was born on June 19, 1937, in Duncan, AZ. When she was sixteen, Helen married her childhood sweetheart, Pete Rodriguez. They enjoyed more than six decades together, building a family and impacting the lives of those around them. Helen and Pete moved to Chandler in the late 1950's with their two sons, Pete Rodriguez III and Johnny Ruben Rodriguez. Here she became an active member of St. Mary's Church where she made many friends. Helen spent several years working for the Chandler Unified School District in food service and as a crossing guard. She loved interacting with the students and making sure they were well fed and safe. Family meant everything to Helen. She spent many summers with her house full of her grandchildren and her nephew, taking them to the movies, watching soap operas, and providing a warm, and caring space that was like a second home. Helen welcomed everyone into her home, always offering a home cooked meal whether you were hungry or not. She loved having company over, loved going to town, loved going to the casino, but most of all, loved her family. Whether you knew her as Helen, Mom, Grandma, Aunt Helen, or Nina Helen, you held a special place in her heart. Services will be held at St. Mary's Mission Church in Duncan, AZ on January 25th, Rosary at 10 am, Mass at 11 am, with burial to follow in Virden, NM.