Tributes

Rosa Rodriguez was born in Laredo, Texas on June 7, 1944, to Anastacio and Nieves Bueno, and went to be with the Lord on June 24, 2023, at the age of 79. She is preceded in death by her parents and her siblings; Blanca Uriegas, Teresa Fernandez, and Joe Bueno. Survivors include her beloved husband of 52 years Pedro Rodriguez, loving son Eric Rodriguez and his wife Diana, grandchildren Sarah Trevino, and Zachary Trevino, great grandchildren Isaac Martinez and Carlee Martinez, brother Anastacio Bueno Jr and his wife Betty, and other family members and friends. “Lord, guide us to our destination and keep us safe,” this is how Rosa would begin her prayer at the start of a journey, whether it be a long trip, or a short drive to the doctor’s office. Her faith in God was strong and important to her, and she strived to be a good Catholic and Christian in the way she lived and by the example she set for others. Now, she embarks on the ultimate journey to heaven – may God guide her in her destination home. Even though Rosa was born in Laredo, her parents moved to San Antonio early in her childhood. She attended Rayburn Elementary, Harlandale Middle School, and graduated from Harlandale High School in 1963. Rosa begin her lifelong career at Dillard’s Department Store in 1968 when Dillard’s opened their first store in San Antonio and continued to work there well into the 1990’s. Ambitious, savvy, and outspoken, Rosa quickly rose through the ranks from customer service to retail associate, department manager, and eventually managed multiple departments. She excelled in management and setting up department displays, especially when it came to women’s fashion and clothing. Her innovative approach in displaying merchandise would draw customers into the departments, resulting in increased sales – this even got the attention of Mr. Dillard himself during one of his visits to the store. She loved her work and was a career woman during a time when that was not necessarily looked favorably upon. Working at Dillard’s became a sort of family affair when sisters Teresa and Blanca, and nieces Evelyn and Doris also started working there. Rosa’s career was only one aspect of her life, her love and devotion to her husband, son, and family is immeasurable; her family came first. Rosa and her husband Pete met and fell in love in early 1971 and were married shortly thereafter at St. Leo’s Church. Soon to follow would be the birth of their only son Eric, and so begin a beautiful and enduring marriage that was to last 52 years. She was a huge believer in education and made sure she instilled this in Eric. She and Pete realized their dream when they became Aggie parents and Eric graduated from Texas A&M University, something they were very proud of. After her career, Rosa dedicated herself to serving in the Church and was a Eucharistic Minister for many years at San Jose Mission and later at St. Leo’s Church. Rosa also graduated from the Oblate School of Theology where she studied Pastoral Lay Ministry in 1996, earning the equivalent of an associate degree. She also taught catechism and enjoyed teaching children about Jesus and how important it is to have good morals. Rosa believed that children are a gift from God, and this showed in the way she interacted with children. She really enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Rosa lived her life on her terms and accomplished what she set out to do. Her life should be celebrated by her family and friends, as she would have wanted it that way.

Tributes

Rosa B. Rodriguez

June 7, 1944 - June 24, 2023