Ernestina Rodriguez

Today, we say goodbye to our beloved Ernestina Rodriguez—our mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. Our hearts are heavy, but we are grateful for the life she gave us, the memories she created, and the love she left behind.

Ernestina was born on November 7, 1956, in Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico. She is the twin sister to brother Ernest Chavez. At 7 years old, she moved with her siblings to Houston, Texas, and at 13, she proudly became a United States citizen. She graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School in 1976, where she enjoyed playing softball, archery and basketball. Later, she was employed by the Hilton Hotel, where her hard work and determination showed in everything she did.

Ernestina found joy in the simple things: crocheting, crossword puzzles, days at the beach, and reading the Bible. She loved taking trips with her children and grandchildren, watching her favorite shows—S.W.A.T., NCIS, Family Feud, and Criminal Minds—and could just as easily spend a quiet day resting at home. Her favorite movie was The Equalizer, and she had a special fondness for Betty Boop.

The name Ernestina means resilient, determined, a servant of God. She gave honor to her name. She was a woman of faith and family—caring, honest, courageous, and resilient. That faith and strength carried her through many hard moments, including the eight years she lived with cancer. Her body grew tired, but her spirit never stopped fighting, and she showed us all what real courage looks like, a gift we will always treasure as we face the challenges of Life.

Her sisters were by her side in different meaningful ways: Dolores was her prayer partner; Juanita helped care for her in her final weeks; Maria, always attentive- brought their beloved mother and twin brother Ernesto to visit. Clara will always cherish the memory of Ernestina teaching her to drive.

Ernestina leaves behind her mother, Juanita Chavez; her siblings Juanita E. Guzman, Dolores M. Villarreal Robles, Maria M. Garza, Ernesto Chavez, Clara G. Chavez, and Martin Chavez; her children Guillermo Rodriguez III, Patricia Rodriguez, and Edilma Brintnall; and her grandchildren Dominik Z. Lopez, Zarin E. Rodriguez, Ysabella P. Rodriguez, Lily M. Brintnall, and Kitana A. Rodriguez. Her family continues to grow, with a great-grandchild on the way, who will one day hear stories about the great-grandmother who loved her family so deeply.

Ernestina passed peacefully at home on August 24, 2026. We wish we'd had more time, but we find comfort knowing she is now at peace.

Mom, we will miss your voice, your laughter, and your strength. We'll think of you at the beach, on family trips, in a crossword puzzle, a crochet stitch, or the pages of your Bible. You fought a long, courageous fight. You loved your family. You kept your faith. And you left a piece of yourself in each of us.

Rest peacefully, Ernestina. You were deeply loved, and you will forever remain in our hearts.

With all our love,

Your Family

We are deeply grateful to Heart to Heart Hospice, especially nurse Savanah and aide Ana, for the gentleness, patience, and dignity they gave our mother in her final months. Ana, you were a true blessing to our family, and your care will never be forgotten.

Thank you to all friends and family who have supported our mother and our family during this difficult journey. To our pastors for your visits, your words and prayers were of great comfort. For providing the church where she grew up, to celebrate her life. There are not enough words to fully express our heartfelt gratitude for the sympathy, love and support you have all extended to our family during this time of loss.

Thank you.