Raquel Rodriguez

Raquel was born on June 12, 1952, in El Paso, TX, to Maria Concepcion De La Cruz and Donanciano Elias Esparza. She grew up in Chicago, IL, alongside her five beloved sisters. Raquel built a successful career in telecommunication sales, spanning over 17 years at AT&T. Her heart for service led her to organize charitable events through her participation with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, which included the March of Dimes, a cause close to her heart given her parents' battle with diabetes.

In 1971, Raquel married Gabby Rodriguez, her devoted partner of 53 years. Together, they raised two sons, Jesus Elias Rodriguez and Salvador Rodriguez, and cherished their role as grandparents to six: Daniel, Kaleigh, Abriela, Elias, Isabela, and Micah. Raquel also lovingly embraced her role as godmother to her nieces, fostering close and meaningful family bonds.

Raquel was passionate about learning, and at 41, she fulfilled a personal dream by earning her bachelor’s degree in business from Dallas Baptist University. Known for her sharp candor, humor, and deep generosity, she was a guiding light to all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband Gabby, her sons Jesus and Salvador, her grandchildren, her five siblings, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Donanciano and Maria. A funeral service will be held at St. Gabriel the Archangel in McKinney, TX, on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Catholic Relief Services for Disaster Relief.

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