Augustine Rodriguez Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, veteran, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, at the age of 104. He was preceded in death by siblings Jesse Rodriguez, Lucy Rodriguez, and Carmen Villarreal; daughter-in-law Jean Rodriguez; and his cherished wife of 72 years, Zulema Rodriguez, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and dancing. He now joins her in eternal rest at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.
Born on October 17, 1920, Augustine served his country with honor in the United States Army at the close of World War II, earning two Bronze Service Stars for his courageous service in Germany. Upon returning home, he devoted over 30 years of his life to his work at Guaranteed Plumbing, where he became a respected and trusted figure in his community.
A man of deep faith, Augustine was a longtime member at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower. He also lent his voice to the church choir for many years, finding joy and purpose in both music and service.
Augustine and Zulema were known for their love of dancing - often the heart and soul of family gatherings. His mornings began with a small shot of tequila, “for health,” but those who knew him best understood that the true secret to his long and full life was his unwavering devotion to his family. Sundays were sacred: a time for his loved ones to gather, share a meal, and strengthen the bonds he so carefully nurtured.
In addition to his faith and family, Augustine had been a member of the San Antonio Target Hunting and Fishing Club, where he formed lasting friendships and shared in his passion for the outdoors and camaraderie.
He is survived by his four sons and their spouses: Augustine Rodriguez III, Robert Rodriguez Sr. and Rachel, Albert Rodriguez Sr. and Elodia, and Eddie Rodriguez and Sylvia; 15 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward his legacy of love, strength, and integrity.
Augustine Rodriguez Jr. lived a century with grace, grit, and gratitude. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were fortunate to know him.
The family will receive friends for visitation on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at Porter Loring Mortuary, located at 1101 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212 from 6:00 to 7:00 PM. A Rosary will begin at 7:00 PM. The next morning, Wednesday, July 30, 2025, a procession will depart the funeral home at 9:30 for a funeral mass beginning at 10:00 AM at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower. A private interment will be held later at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution to Little Flower at https://littleflowerbasilica.org/donate or the Salvation Army or to another charity of your choice.
