Harlingen - Guillermo Cesar Rodriguez, known by family and friends as "Memo", passed away on January 31, 2021, at the age of 89.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 60 years, Rosa Carmen Rodriguez, whom he affectionately called Carmela; his five children Cesar (Velma), Hector (Tracy), Adrian, Edith, and Rene (Michele); and his six grandchildren Philip (Courtney), Rebecca (Tashi), Seve, Emma, Isabel, and Mateo. He also leaves behind two siblings, a brother, Rosendo (Olivia) and a sister, Minerva Gonzalez (Rodriguez), three nieces, Sandra (Freddy) Nieto, Lisa (Chris) Brinkley, Belinda (Mark) Dunn, a nephew David (Maggie), and countless grandnieces and grandnephews and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his father, Rosendo, and his mother, Ofelia.

Memo, a native of the Rio Grande Valley, grew up in Raymondville, TX and graduated from Raymondville High School in 1952. After an honorable service in the United States Air Force from 1954 through 1957, he earned several degrees: a Bachelor of Science (Texas A&I, Kingsville), a Masters in Supervision (Pan American University, Edinburg), and a Masters in Mid-Management Administration (Pan American University, Edinburg). What would follow is an illustrious career serving the Harlingen community, where he and his family have resided over the last 60 years. For more than four decades, he worked as an educator, over 25 of those years as Principal for Gay Memorial Junior High School. He attempted a brief retirement, lasting only one summer, but was called to continue serving his community, spending an additional 7 years as a math teacher at the Tamayo House in Harlingen, which houses and serves troubled youth. At the ripe age of 72, he finally settled into a well-deserved retirement.

A devout Catholic, he and his wife, Carmela, were active members of St. Anthony's Catholic Church.

The Rodriguez family would like to extend their sincere gratitude for the love and kindness expressed upon them during this difficult time. It is impossible to summarize the life of such a remarkable man into a few simple words; those who knew him know that he lived and loved with a true servant's heart. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity. May we all be called upon and inspired to continue that legacy in his name.

Visitation will begin Sunday at 12:00 PM until 8:00 PM and a rosary will be at 6:00 PM. Funeral services will be held Monday, February 8, 2021 with a chapel service at 10:00 AM at the Rudy Garza Funeral Home and burial will follow at Restlawn Cemetery with military honors under the auspices of the American Legion Post #205.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Valley Morning Star on Feb. 5, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Guillermo Rodriguez

Sponsored by Rudy Garza Funeral Home - Harlingen.

10 Entries

February 17, 2024

Every single day is an extremely difficult challenge to continue without having you around . I miss you so very much dad ...I love you

Ramiro Flores

February 8, 2021

I was a teacher at your school when you were the Principal and I have wonderful memories of the time I taught there. Thanks to your leadership, you helped me become a better educator and thank you for giving me the opportunity to work at Memorial Middle School. Rest in peace and my condolences to your family and to all who are going through this difficult time.

Edith Rodriguez

February 8, 2021

Dad...
It is said that fathers & daughters have a special bond that is unbreakable...I agree 100%. Your love, compassion, patience & understanding along with strength is like no other. Your guidance was always taken to heart. I will miss you dearly and treasure every memory we’ve shared...

GUADALUPE GONZALEZ

February 8, 2021

Condolences to the Rodriguez family, Mr Rodriguez was a very find kind Principal who was principal to our three children, Ida, Sergio & Lupe hope that the Lord is with you always, Mr & Mrs Rodriguez were a couple of great Faith, RIP.......Lupe & Angelita Gonzalez

Socorro Sanchez

February 7, 2021

My deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the entire family.

Mitzi Cestero

February 6, 2021

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Marsha Gramley

February 6, 2021

Mr. Rod was the kindest, sweetest person I have ever known! He saw something in the blonde educator and gave me my first shot at being a campus administrator. I was honored to serve as an Asst. Principal at Memorial with Mr. Rod. He was such an awesome role model and mentor. I learned so much about dealing with upset parents and typical campus situations from Mr. Rod. He had "the touch" with people that came from his character and his faith. In all the years that I knew him, I don't believe I ever saw him angry....maybe frustrated....but never angry. So many great memories. Mr. Rod set my professional course. I'll forever be grateful for his example. Rest easy, Mr. Rod.

Belinda Rodriguez Dunn

February 5, 2021

I was very devastated when I heard about the passing of Tio Memo. I will never forget the great times we all had as a family over the years at weddings, barbeques, South Padre Island, and other occasions. He will be deeply missed. Tia Carmela, Cesar, Hector, Edith, Adrian, Rene, dad, and Tia Mine: You will all be in my prayers as you go through this difficult time. May God Bless You All.

Kimberly Cano Zuniga

February 5, 2021

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

Sally Elizondo

February 5, 2021

Mr. Rodriguez was my principal in Jr High. Such a great man he was the Principal no one wanted to be in his office but he also made you feel you could go to him if you needed anything. I know for sure he will remembered for the way he counted down students to go in the cafeteria.5-4-3-2-1 GO! Memorial Raiders 96-97

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