Rondi Marie Salgado

Rondi Marie Salgado, 76, a faithful servant of God, entered into eternal rest on January 8, 2026. Born in Texarkana, Arkansas, to Robert Samuel Rider and Anna Marie (Ballard) Rider, Rondi’s life of service to others began with her calling to provide comfort and care as a Licensed Vocational Nurse.

In 1972 she married Guillermo (Bill) Salgado in West Memphis, Arkansas, and in 1974 was entrusted by God to care for and love His special angel, Christopher Scott Salgado, to whom she dedicated her heart and training for the next 43 years.

Rondi called many cities home throughout her lifetime. In each new location she prioritized setting up her home, locating the best healthcare providers, finding and advocating for special-needs-focused groups, and searching for the perfect church. An especially talented and organized crafter, Rondi used her amazing abilities to make and sell gift baskets through a successful business she owned in Phoenix for many years.

Not one to sit idle, when Rondi sold her business she moved to Texas where she found her latest church family at Houston’s Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church. In addition to the loving fellowship and many friendships gained through joining various groups of like-minded parishioners, she made the trek to Portugal for what she called an unforgettable Pilgrimage to Fatima. The trip also included a visit to Lourdes, a remarkable experience she treasured.

A shining example of kindness, Rondi loved Jesus, her family and friends, and everyone she met. She is survived by her sisters Vicki Rider and Lisa Mickel, and her brother Joe (Judy) Rider, all of Texas; her dear friend Karen Cooney and the granddaughter of her heart Madeline Cooney of Colorado; her cherished Salgado family in Mexico; and many lifelong friends she gained through her support of the special-needs community.

Rondi was preceded in death by her husband Guillermo and son Christopher, her parents Robert and Anna, and her brother Richard.

A funeral mass will be held on January 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church, 11507 Huffmeister Road in Houston. In the spring, there will be a Celebration of Life in her hometown of West Memphis, Arkansas, where her ashes will be interred with those of her beloved family.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28