Cosme Rodriguez

September 18, 1954 – October 10, 2025

Cosme Rodriguez, a proud U.S. Army veteran, beloved son, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, passed away on October 10, 2025 as his niece, Lucero, stood by his side.

He was 71 years old.

Known affectionately as “Coy” by his family and close friends, Cosme was born on September 18, 1954, to Adan Rodriguez and Benita Garza de Rodriguez. He served honorably in the United States Army, beginning his military career at Ft. Benning, GA in 1974 and receiving an Honorable Discharge at Ft. Bragg, NC in 1977. He completed the United States Army Infantry School Airborne Course in January 1975 and would proudly speak of his time with the 82nd Airborne. His courage and commitment to service left a lasting mark on all who knew him.

Cosme’s father passed away when he was just a boy, leaving a void that shaped much of his quiet strength and resilience. After his military service, Cosme returned home to care for his mother, becoming her sole caregiver until her passing in January 2013. His unwavering devotion to taking care of his mother can only be described as love in its purest form.

Though he did not live a very religious life in his youth, Cosme experienced a spiritual renewal in his final months. After suffering a stroke in July, he proudly proclaimed his Roman Catholic faith to hospital staff and requested to be prayed over by a Catholic priest. This return to his faith brought him peace and comfort in his final days.

He battled prostate cancer, lung cancer, heart disease, and other medical complications. Despite the physical and emotional toll, Cosme faced each day with silent courage; never giving up.

Cosme was the father of two sons, but he was a father to all his nieces and nephews by choice. His guidance, warmth, and quiet presence shaped the lives of many, offering love and support without condition. His nieces and nephews are all deeply grateful for the love, protection, and wisdom he gave so freely.

His life was not defined by accolades or recognition, but by the depth of his sacrifice and the quiet dignity with which he endured. He was a man who gave everything to his country and his family, even when he had little to nothing left for himself.

He is survived by his two sons, several grandchildren, and two sisters, Viola and Benita, as well as many nieces and nephews who cherished him as a beloved uncle and father figure. His siblings — Alfonso, Roberto, Adan, and Ofelia — preceded him in death, along with his parents.

Cosme Rodriguez’s presence will be deeply imprinted within the deepest depths of our hearts, and his acts of guidance will forever reside in the fondest parts of our memories.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, located at 1615 S. Fort Hood St., Killeen, TX 76542, with a Rosary at 6:00 PM. Cosme’s life will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 9:00 AM at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home. Interment and military honors will follow at 11:00 AM at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery, located at 11463 SH-195 Killeen, TX 76542; where he will be laid to rest.