Luz Rodriguez Leal

Luz Rodriguez Leal, 97, of Houston, Texas , passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025. Luz was born on January 27, 1928, in Taft, Texas to Nicolas Sierra Rodriguez and Guadalupe Hernandez Rodriguez. Luz attended Del Mar College and earned her Associate's Degree in nursing. She worked as an LVN at Methodist Hospital and contracted with Baylor Hospital. She retired in 1993. She is survived by her children, Gloria Leal and William (Bill) J. Leal (Ginger), five grandchildren, Tunisia Burns (Robbie), Gary Burton, Lauren Martin (Travis), Brenna Leal, and Kenley Leal, five great-grandchildren, Dustin, Leila, Lylah, Lillian, and Tyler, and one great-great grandson, Nico Anthony, brother Margarito Rodriguez (Andrea), and Maria (Cuca) Rodriguez Gaona (Jose), and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gilbert Leal, son, John Nicolas (Penny Boy) Leal, parents Nicolas and Guadalupe Rodriguez, brothers Nicolas Rodriguez, Jr., Cristobal Rodriguez, Nicolas (Nick) Rodriguez, Gilberto Rodriguez, sisters Maria (Chita) Chavez, Guadalupe (Lupe) Mershon, and Christina Rodriguez.

Luz was a devoted and hardworking woman, shaped by the values instilled in her by her parents. She attended PresMex School, a Presbyterian school for Mexican girls, where her foundation of discipline and service began. At the age of 19, she founded the Stardust Girls Club and served as its president. The club met monthly, held raffles and dances, and organized an annual Christmas event to collect toys for children in need—a testament to her generous spirit and leadership. Luz also pursued her interest in beauty, attending beauty school and running a successful salon from the family home in Taft. However, it was the medical field that truly captured her heart. Her journey began at the age of 15 when her father arranged for her to work for the local physician, Dr. Jenkins. Starting with simple tasks like sweeping and cleaning, Luz quickly advanced to escorting patients and taking vital signs. This early exposure ignited a lifelong passion for healthcare, leading to a fulfilling and distinguished career as a nurse.

On June 20, 1954, Luz married the love of her life, Gilbert. Their marriage was full of laughter, music, dancing, and shared adventures. After his passing on June 11, 2016, Luz missed him deeply but often spoke fondly of the beautiful life they shared. Together, they traveled throughout their years of marriage and even more so during retirement. Some of her most treasured journeys included trips to Austin, Corpus Christi, Alaska, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Spain, Portugal, and especially Mazatlán and Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

Luz cherished music, good food, family gatherings, and seeing the world. She lived fully, loved deeply, and never stopped giving of herself to others. In her own words, Luz said that when her time came, she didn’t want tears—only celebration. She said “I had a great and long life,” and she hoped her family and friends would smile through their sorrow, remembering the joy and love she gave so freely.

Luz will be remembered for her ability to live life to the fullest, for never meeting a stranger, and for her passion for music, dancing, and delicious food—especially seafood. But above all, she will be remembered for the deep and unwavering love she had for her family. She lived without regrets, except for one: that she would miss the party held to celebrate her.

Luz, you made it just in time to celebrate your anniversary with your beloved Gilbert. Dance, celebrate, and rest in peace—you are now home.

A Rosary will be held at 11:00 am followed by a Celebration of Life at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home, 12800 Westheimer Rd., Houston, Texas 77077. For those attending the services, you are encouraged to wear red—Luz’s favorite color—in her honor. Let it be a joyful celebration of her vibrant spirit, the love she shared, and the unforgettable life she lived.