Clifford L. J. Rodriguez

It is with heavy hearts and deep love that the Rodriguez family announces the passing of Lt. Col. Retired Clifford L.J. Rodriguez, the patriarch and rock of our family. Clifford gently closed his eyes to this earthly life and entered eternal peace on Friday, February 27, 2026, while in the compassionate care of Calcutta House in Lafayette. He was 92 years old.

Clifford was born on June 11, 1933, in Port Bolivar to the late Clifton Rodriguez and the late Dilta Vincent Rodriguez, the only son among three children. At the tender age of six, Clifford lost his father, and the family moved to Delcambre to live with his grandmother. He held dear the memories of rising early to share coffee milk with her before milking the cows. He often recalled how the barn cats would gather around him, knowing he would always share fresh milk with them — friends for life.

Clifford also treasured his childhood adventures hunting in Henry and Boston. Raised in a family steeped in Cajun heritage, he was a true outdoorsman who never passed up the chance to hunt ducks, deer, or any game in season. Being dropped off in the countryside at daybreak, returning home with ducks or deer in hand, were freedoms and joys he cherished deeply. He excelled in school as well, proudly playing six-man football for Delcambre High School.

After graduating from Delcambre High School, Clifford attended SLI (now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette), where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering. In those early college days, he often hitchhiked to Lafayette for classes. Seeking a way to offset travel expenses, he joined the ROTC — only later discovering the funds required service in return. Soon, he was on his way to Lackland Air Force Base, embarking on what would become a distinguished military career.

At Lackland, Clifford learned to fly — despite never having set foot in an airport before, as he loved to recount. Flight school led him to pilot one of the Armed Forces’ largest and most vital aircraft, the C-130 Hercules, supporting the Air Force in numerous missions. During his 21-year career, he also developed the first computer program for Strategic Air Command air defense systems. Clifford retired from the United States Air Force with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel after more than two decades of honorable service.

Following his stellar military career, Clifford began a second chapter in the oilfield industry with Chevron-Texaco at the Henry Hub. His knowledge and innovation led to the development of machinery instrumental in helping set the price of natural gas. For his achievements, he was honored with a cover feature in Fortune Magazine — a distinction that filled him and his family with immense pride. After 20 dedicated years, Clifford retired once more, determined to see the world on his own terms.

Clifford and his beloved wife Nickie, the love of his life, sold their home in Delcambre, purchased a motorhome, and embarked on grand adventures across the United States. They were proud members of The Good Sam Club and an Air Force Retirement Club, traveling extensively with their cherished poodles, Baby and Muffin, faithfully by their side. Together, they created a lifetime of treasured memories. As Nickie’s health declined, Clifford lovingly stepped away from travel to care for her until her passing.

Four years later, Clifford met Theresa, and they married, building a life together in New Iberia. At home, Clifford found joy in reading his favorite poetry, watching Fox News, and enjoying wildlife programs.

Above all, Clifford was our steadfast rock — guiding, protecting, and loving his family with his whole heart. While we mourn his passing, we rejoice in knowing he is now at peace and that one day we will be reunited with him in eternal glory. “Rest well, thy good and faithful servant, for you have earned your reward.” We love you.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Theresa Chataignier Rodriguez; his children, Matthew Rodriguez (Becky), Rachael Bourliea, Michelle Mills (Russ), Elizabeth LeBlanc (Scott), Luke Rodriguez (Lori), and Adam Rodriguez; his lovingly chosen children with his late wife Nickie Rodriguez; Melissa Guidry, Melanie Rodriguez, Amanda Cormier (Albert), Tracy Freyou (Stephen), Larry Nicholas Rodriguez, and Kent Rodriguez (Kristin); his former wife and mother of his children, Rebecca LeBlanc Rodriguez; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his only surviving sister, Lorraine LeBlanc.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nickie Richard Rodriguez; his parents, Clifton and Dilta Rodriguez; his sister, Janice Dore’; and his grandson, Justin Viator.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service honoring Clifford will be held at Evangeline Funeral Home of Delcambre on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, from 10:00 am until 12:00 noon. Following the service, Clifford will be laid to rest in Our Lady of the Lake Cemetery with full Military Honors.

The Rodriguez family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his care givers Myra Fontnett, Megon Derouen, Yvonne Cleary and Janel Burgardt, and to the staff of Hospice of Acadiana and the Calcutta House for the care and compassion shown to our dear father. You are all greatly appreciated.

Relatives and friends are invited to share their memories and condolences by visiting Clifford’s memorial page at www.evangelinedelcambre.com.

Evangeline Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.