Edilma Maria Rodriguez

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the Passing of Edilma Maria Rodriguez, beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, friend, and a true embodiment of grace and elegance. She passed away on October 11, 2023, at the age of 84.

Edilma was born the 4th daughter of Agripina Martinez and Luis Barrera in La Chorrera, Panama on March 15, 1939. She was one of 9 children born to the Barreras. At the age of 17 she graduated from high school in La Chorrera as class of 1956. The same year she was offered a trip to the United States. She traveled to Houston, Texas with her Aunt Margot, Margot's husband Jaime Berrocal, and her two cousins Ceferino and Choli. Edilma and Choli enrolled in school to learn English, but her family did not stay long as they departed in 1958. She made the courageous decision to stay in Houston, Texas.

After their departure, Edilma stayed with dear friends Eva and Joe Compean, who offered her a room in their home. She obtained her first job in a window factory. In her free time, Edilma loved going with friends to the dance at the Pan-American Ballroom, especially the afternoon matinee. One late afternoon, she met an impeccably dressed, handsome, dark haired you man named Reynaldo. Quickly Edilma knew Reynaldo was the love of her life. After 3 months, Reynaldo proposed and Edilma accepted. They were married on April 2, 1959. Later, they celebrated their marriage through a Convalidation Ceremony on April 2, 1977, at Holy Name Catholic Church. They quietly celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary in 2021 and Edilma was widowed when her beloved Reynaldo passed away November 28, 2021.

Edilma belonged to the strongest generation, faithfully serving her husband, a WW II veteran, and her family.

Edilma and Reynaldo were parishioners at St. Patrick's Catholic Church for 30 years. She served as Lector, as well as a member of the Sacred Heart Society, the Guadalupana's and Young at Heart. Her great hobby was cooking, and she served her church by cooking in the Parish Hall Kitchen after Mass and for church events such as the annual bazaar.

Edilma was a woman of class and poise. Her elegance was not only external but internal as it radiated from her kind and gentle soul. Those who had the privilege of knowing her always remembered her loving and welcoming presence. As a wife, mother and grandmother, Edilma's love knew no bounds, she created a sanctuary of love and solace.

Edilma's main passions were her family and fashion. As a licensed Beautician who ran her own business from her home, her goal was to always present herself and her family respectfully and with style. She was known for her grace and elegance. She lives on through her family that commemorate her by keeping her spirit alive.

Edilma Maria Barrera de Rodriguez is survived by her daughter Edilma Rodriguez, son Deacon Reynaldo Ray Rodriguez and his wife Anita, son David Rodriguez and his wife Leticia, granddaughter Marisa Izaguirre and her husband Manuel, granddaughter Elena Porras and her husband Tony, grandson Luis Reynaldo Rodriguez, granddaughter Bianca Rodriguez, great-grandchildren Ofelia Fe, Eliana Luz, Anthony Ray Jr., Ray Catalino and Pablo Antonio.

In closing, we are reminded of the comforting words from the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 25, verse 23: "Well done, my good and faithful servant." May this verse serve as a reminder that the spirit of Edilma lives on, and her legacy of grace continues to shine brightly in our hearts.

A celebration of Edilma's life will be held on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at American Heritage Funeral Home, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038.

A rosary service will occur Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at 7:00 PM, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038.

A funeral Mass will occur Thursday, October 19, 2023, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Community, 3600 Brinkman, Houston, TX 77018. A committal service will occur Thursday, October 19, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Houston Nation Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038. A reception will occur Thursday, October 19, 2023, from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038.

May Edilma find eternal peace and may her spirit and legacy continue to radiate grace and love in the heavens above. She will forever reside in our hearts as a living testament of faith and love.