Gary Robert Rodriguez

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 837 Jeanette Street, Abilene, Texas 79602, on Friday, July 26, 2024 at 10 AM. He will be laid to rest near his mother at Elliott-Hamil Garden of Memories, 5701 US Highway 277 South, Abilene, Texas 79606 following Mass. A Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 25, 2024, from 5 - 7 PM, with a Rosary beginning at 7 PM at the Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, Chapel of Faith, 5701 US Highway 277 South, Abilene, Texas 79606.

Gary was born on May 13, 1962 in Leoti, Kansas, to the late Robert Rivas Rodriguez and Mary Ellen (Gonzales) Rodriguez. At an early age, his family relocated to Abilene, Texas where he was raised along with his siblings. He attended local schools and played football at Franklin Jr. High. In his younger years, he participated in several rodeo events. From a young age, Gary had a strong work ethic. He managed several restaurants, including Casa Ole and Cici’s Pizza, through the years. He worked at and managed the Army Surplus for many years at both locations. With his experience in restaurant management, he opened his own establishment, Gary’s Pizza on Judge Ely. At the time of his passing, he worked for the V.F.W, where he took pride in its facilities and services. He also gained a completely new community of friends through his association with the V.F.W.

Gary loved serving his community and those in need. Gary was very strong in his faith and truly loved the Lord. He also loved spending time with his family. He will be remembered as someone you could count on being there to help. Gary really enjoyed hosting poker nights for his family and friends. He also enjoyed his bowling league. His unique sense of humor will be missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents; maternal grandparents, Michael and Victoria Gonzales; paternal grandparents, Augustine and Erminia Rodriguez; and his niece Ashley Nicole Rapp.

He is survived by his siblings, Ruby Hubbard and husband Jerry, Johnnie Rodriguez and wife Norma, Jeannie Bower, Lori McDonald and husband Gary, Melinda Jimenez and husband Peter, and Janette Rodriguez Barff; his nieces and nephews, Cassandra, Valarie, Garrett, Bobby, Andrew, Heather, and Roman; numerous great-nieces and nephew, aunts, uncles and cousins. Gary is also survived by a dear friend and brother, Karl and wife Karen Speights and their grandson Caleb, as well as many special friends who were blessed to have been a part of his life.

Pallbearers include Raymond Loza, Ruben Pallarez, Ricky Loza, Barney Pallarez, Eloy Gomez, and Daniel Ledesma.