Joe M. Rodriguez, 90, went to be with his Lord and Savior on November 20, 2025. Born in Kenedy, Texas, Joe spent most of his life in Victoria, where he built a humble and hardworking life rooted in family, community, and faith.
Joe retired from H.E.B., where he was known for his friendliness and strong work ethic. Outside of work, Joe lived simply and joyfully, embracing the things that brought him comfort: Westerns on TV, music playing from the radio he carried with him everywhere, his favorite cowboy boots and hat, cooking on the barbecue, which he especially loved, and a good cup of coffee at any time of the day. In his younger years, he enjoyed tending to his garden and raising goats and cattle—work that reflected his patient and caring nature.
He had a gift for conversation and enjoyed visiting with people, sharing stories, and never turning down the chance to go out to eat. Fried chicken and trips to Walmart were some of his favorite outings. Joe’s Catholic faith was deeply important to him; he wore a cross around his neck every day of his life, including his last.
Joe overcame many illnesses prior to his passing, demonstrating a strong fighting spirit that inspired all who knew him.
As we remember this kind, loving husband, father, and brother, we take comfort in the promise of Revelation 21:4: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Estefanita Ochoa Rodriguez, whom he married and cherished for the rest of his life. He spoke of her often and held her memory close. He remained devoted to their three daughters, asking about them and loving them deeply until his final days. He often asked about his grandchildren—what they were doing, how they were doing—and took great joy in displaying photos of his family throughout his home.
Joe is survived by his daughters, Mary Rivera and husband, David, of Victoria; Elva Hutchings and husband, Todd, of Georgia; and Elsa Comstock and husband, Norman, of Sugar Land. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Logan Rivera (Sueji), Reed Rivera, William Remy Comstock, and Brandon Reese Comstock; as well as his siblings Blanca Rodriguez, Dora Rodriguez, Ray Rodriguez, and Juanita Synclar.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Estefanita Ochoa Rodriguez; and siblings Dominga Cabrera, Margarita Martinez, Julia Perez, Eva Gomez, and Elida Perales.
A graveside service will be held on December 4, 2025, at 10:30 am at Memory Gardens Cemetery, with Deacon Eddie Huse officiating.
Pallbearers will be Logan Rivera, Reed Rivera, David Rivera, Norman Comstock, and Todd Hutchings.
Honorary Pallbearers will be William Remy Comstock and Brandon Reese Comstock.
Joe will be remembered for his gentle spirit, steady presence, love of family, and the joy he found in simple pleasures—watching Westerns, listening to music, enjoying fried chicken, shopping trips, barbecuing, sipping a good cup of coffee at any time of the day, and surrounding himself with photos and memories of his loved ones throughout his home.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7
