It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Reverend Deacon Jose “Coche” Rodriguez, Jr. at the age of 93. He died peacefully in his home on December 22, 2025 surrounded by his family. He was born on January 28, 1932 to Jose and Luz Rodriguez in Laredo, Texas. He attended Martin High School, Laredo Junior College and served honorably in the U.S. Army.

Jose began preparing to become a permanent deacon in his 50’s and was ordained a deacon in September 1988 in the Diocese of Corpus Christi and once the Diocese of Laredo was established he continued to be an integral part of ministering to the Catholic community of Laredo. He retired from the U. S. Postal Service after 30 years as he wanted to dedicate his time to serving as a full time deacon. After his ordination, the bishop at that time assigned him to working with the jail ministries in Laredo and the surrounding counties. In this role he was passionate in working with those incarcerated, in detention centers or immigrants in need of guidance. Jose was a long time parishioner of San Luis Rey Church where he actively volunteered in numerous ministries. He was a dedicated family man, mentor and respectful servant of God who ministered tirelessly to people in need for 30 plus years. Jose will be greatly missed by all who knew him and worked closely with him.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Margarita Rodriguez, 5 children, Lucy Gonzalez (George) from Victoria, Texas, Jose Rodriguez, III (Pilar) from Albacete, Spain, Diana O’Neill [Ray]  from Melbourne, Florida, Veronica (Betty) Gonzales (+Andres) of Laredo, and Christina Vidal (David) of San Antonio, Texas, 6 grand children, Alexander (Emily), David, and Michael Gonzalez, Jose Eduardo, Pablo and Pilar Teresa Rodriguez, and 4 great grandchildren, Aubree Gonzalez, Aston Solis, Enzo Gonzalez and Vigo Rodriguez. He is also survived  by his sister Luisa Garcia (+Desiderio) and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Jose was preceded in death by his parents, 3 sisters, Carmela Salazar (+Ramiro), Guadalupe Lozano (+Alberto) and Elva Rodriguez.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Laredo VA Clinic, Rocha Health caregivers especially Synthia Mendoza, Altus Hospice staff and extended family and close friends for all the attention, care and time they gave to Jose during his end of life.

Pallbearers will be: Alexander Gonzalez, David Gonzalez, Michael Gonzalez, Jose Eduardo Rodriguez, Pablo Rodriguez, Pilar Teresa Rodriguez.

The Rodriguez family will be receiving guests on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at San Luis Rey Catholic Church located at 3502 Sanders Ave from 9:00 am  to 10:30 am. A rosary will be recited at 10:30 am. Funeral mass will begin at 11:00 am. Interment will follow to the Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by the United States Army Honor Guard and the American Legion Post 59 Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers, family is requesting donations be made to San Luis Rey Catholic Church, 3502 Sanders Ave. Laredo, TX  78040, 956-723-6587.

Funeral arrangements are by Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services, 1320 Trey Dr., Laredo, Texas 78041 (956) 723-3611. For your convenience, you may leave your condolences to the family online at www.freddickey.com

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