Richard Manuel Rodriguez

1957 - 2021

Richard Manuel Rodriguez departed this life on July 31, 2021, in his home surrounded by family. He died very peacefully with his wife and children at his side. As a successful business owner of B&R Collison Center, he worked tirelessly for 42+ years to ensure that he provided his family with the best life possible. Though his health waned over the years, his zeal for life never did. He truly loved his special date nights with his wife Dee Dee, dining at fine restaurants and running off to the casino for a few hours to play the slots. After his family and business, one of his greatest joys was spending countless weekends on the water fishing with the kids at their camp in Hopedale. While Ricky's exterior persona could be tough, stubborn, and demanding, his heart was deeply kind, generous, and loving. He only wanted the best for everyone he loved, and even if he didn't express it verbally, his actions spoke volumes. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Thomas Rodriguez, and his mother, Theodora Thurmond Rodriguez; his brother, Thomas Thurmond Rodriguez and sister, Lori Rodriguez Driscoll. Richard is survived by his beloved and lovingly dedicated wife of 41 years, Dee Dee, and their three amazing children, Dominic, Nicholas, and Gabrielle. He is also survived by nine brothers and sisters and countless nieces and nephews. He left an indelible mark on everyone with his quick wit and ability to make people laugh. He will be remembered forever by his family and friends with great love, respect, and admiration. He was a true patriarch, and will be dearly loved and missed by his wife and children. Services will be held on Thursday, August 12, 2021 at Garden of Memories Funeral Home, 4900 Airline Drive in Metairie, LA. Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. followed by the Funeral Mass. Interment will be in the Resurrection Mausoleum located in Garden of Memories Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Ricky would hope that you would do an unexpected and unsolicited act of kindness in his name for someone in need. This is something that he has done throughout his entire lifetime. However, if you would like to make a donation in his honor, please send to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Foundation. The online guestbook is available to express your fond thoughts, memories and/or condolences at www.gardenofmemoriesmetairie.com.