Maria de la Luz Rodriguez

McAllen ~ Maria de la Luz Rodriguez, 97, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, January 1st, 2026 at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on Tuesday, August 28, 1928 in San Isidro, Leon Guanajuato, Mexico, the daughter of Vidal Sotelo and Guadalupe Villescas. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband: Francisco Rodriguez and a daughter: San Juanita Giordano.

She is survived by a son: Francisco Javier (Mirta) Rodriguez of McAllen; daughters: Maria Elena (Cliff) Davis of Mission, Maria Teresa (Antonio) Rodriguez of Donna, Martha (Ralph) Martinez of San Antonio, Anna Maria Hernandez of McAllen, Maria del Rosario (Jorge) Maldonado of Harlingen, Patricia (Ramiro) Mata of Mission, Veronica Rodriguez of McAllen; brother: Jesus (Virginia) Villescas of McAllen; sisters: Rosa Hinojosa of Levelland and Carmen Morales of New Braunfels; 15 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family, who never left her side during this difficult period.

Maria de la Luz, a grand lady, came to McAllen at an early age when she met and married her love of her life, Francisco, who she fondly called "Rodri", is reunited with him again.

Besides being a mother and caring for several of her grandchildren, who she refused to be entrusted to others, was a successful entrepreneur partnering with numerous companies where she successfully promoted and sold their products.

Momma inspired us and countless others to be better. She spread her boundless love to us and anyone she met. She was foremost God fearing, deeply devoted to her faith, compassionate, always opening her door to anyone in need; noble, wise and unwavering. Her teachings were by example, not words.

Her qualities inspired admiration along with her ageless beauty and profound wisdom in living a successful, fulfilling life, creating a legacy that would make anyone proud, and inspiring her future generations.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm Monday, January 5th, 2026 with the Holy Rosary being recited at 6:30 pm at Rivera Funeral Home, 1901 Pecan Blvd., McAllen. Celebration of Life Mass will be held at 11:00 am Tuesday, January 6th, 2026 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 2209 Kendelwood Ave., McAllen. Interment will follow at Valley Memorial Gardens, 3605 N. Taylor Rd., Mission.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Rivera Funeral Home of McAllen.