Jaime Alfonso Rodriguez

Jaime was born on March 12, 1976 to Drs. Joe and Elvia Rodriguez in Nacogdoches, Texas. His parents imparted the importance of education, community, and activism on him from an early age. In his younger years, he filled his time with volunteering in the community, being a Boy Scout, competing in debate, and participating in student council. He received many accolades in his youth, including winning debate tournaments, being elected class president 4th grade through high school, officer of high school student council and Texas state student council officer, and earning his Eagle Scout. He developed, and the state of Texas adopted, the “Pride and Patriotism” award for student councils, which is still in existence today. At age 11, he had his first job at the Daily Sentinel, where he was top salesperson. In high school, he hosted a weekly radio show in Nacogdoches, where he interviewed notable politicos such as Ann Richards and George HW Bush. He even interned in Congressman Charlie Wilson’s office in Washington DC! After high school, Jaime moved to Washington, D.C. and remained there for 23 years. He attended the Catholic University of America where he earned his Bachelor and Master degrees, and was a member of Alpha Delta Gamma. It was here that he developed a deeper love for politics, worked in House Minority Leader Dick Gephardt’s office, and often stayed in the Capitol building late into the night. He also started work on political campaigns. He found a volunteer outlet in Alpha Phi Omega, a co-ed service fraternity.

After college, Jaime pursued a career in marketing for both private and public projects. His marketing career allowed him to travel and work in numerous countries, assist professional athletes, and make connections all over the world. He was the founder and editor of Scouting magazine and a professional photographer. He was even the photographer for Hollywood movie premiers. He spent significant time working at Philmont, at the BSA Sea Base in the Florida Keys, and served on the National Scouting Board.

Jaime returned to Texas in 2012. He managed and supported several local, state, and federal campaigns. He facilitated several local and state political forums over the years, and could be found at political events throughout the state of Texas. Jaime also worked with the Tapia Center at Rice University, where he developed a camp for underrepresented minorities to participate in STEM activities and acquire leadership skills. The Tapia Camp brought hundreds of students and educators from all over Texas and Louisiana to the Rice campus to experience the college life and have fun through camp activities.

Jaime loved listening to classic rock, having new adventures, juggling, playing crane games at restaurants, going to the movies, cruising, and bringing people together. Jaime loved hosting an annual Fourth of July party and putting on a firework show over Lake Houston. Jaime took every opportunity to be outside, whether it was hiking, camping, canoeing, or simply observing nature. He devoted his life to causes that promoted integrity and decency for all people.

Throughout Jaime’s many adventures, Jaime’s heart remained in the Rio Grande Valley where his family had its roots. He loved his aunts, uncles, cousins, and many dear friends. He spoke fondly of the food, the community, the music, and the culture.

Two scholarships will be set up in Jaime’s name. One for Nacogdoches High School debate students, and one for students from Brownsville, TX.

Jaime is survived by his loving parents, Drs. Joe and Elvia Rodriguez, his sister Dr. Marisela Annette Rodriguez Roeges, and brother-in-law Rex Roeges.

In lieu of flowers at St. Mary Magdalene, donations accepted for Magdalene House Social Services at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church, or to your favorite Charity.

Flowers accepted only in Brownsville.

Two scholarships will be established in the near future.

Funeral Arrangements for Jaime Rodriguez are as follows.

1. Humble(Houston) TX- Saturday, March 22- 8 AM viewing and rosary, and 9 AM Mass- St. Mary Magdalene Catholic church- 527 S. Houston Ave, Humble,TX 77338

Reception at McGivney Hall on church premises 110 Isaacks Rd following.

2. Brownsville, TX- Friday March 28, Viewing from 5pm-9 pm, Rosary at 7 pm. Del Angel Buena Vista 125 McDavitt Blvd. Brownsville, TX 78521

3. Brownsville, TX- Saturday March 29. St. Mary Mother of the Church 1914 Barnard Rd Brownsville , TX 78520 12:30 pm Mass. Burial and Reception following.