Elsa Encarnation Rodríguez

With profound love and deep sorrow, the family of Elsa Encarnacion Rodriguez announces her passing on 28 June 2026 at the age of 91. Born on March 10, 1935, in Santa Cruz del Sur, Camagüey, Cuba, Elsa began a remarkable journey that would be defined by courage, faith, love, and devotion to her family. She spent her life surrounded by the people she cherished and the communities she called home, from Cuba to Orleans Parish and Jefferson Parish, Louisiana.

She was the beloved wife of the late Pablo Rodriguez Lopez, with whom she shared a lifetime of devotion, sacrifice, and unwavering partnership. Together, they built a life rooted in love, family, and perseverance. Elsa was the loving mother of Pablo Arrelio Rodriguez (late Barbra), Raul Carlos Rodriguez (Teresa), the late Humberto Rodriguez (Myra), and Elsa Maria Chesnut (Randy). She was the treasured daughter of the late Jacinta Corona and Aurelio Arredondo.

Elsa leaves behind a beautiful legacy through her 12 grandchildren Pablo III, Stefan, Kristie, Kacie, Elizabeth, Tracy, Bryan, Preston, Dylan, and Christian each of whom she adored with all her heart. She is also survived by 22 great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and many cherished family members and friends whose lives were forever touched by her kindness, strength, and love. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Sean, and granddaughter, Kimberly.

Elsa’s life was a testament to courage and resilience. In 1961, she bravely left Cuba in search of freedom and opportunity for her family. Her journey was filled with uncertainty and sacrifice, enduring fear, hardship, and the challenges of a dangerous escape across the sea. Through faith and determination, she reached a new beginning in America and built a life founded on love, family, and gratitude.

She made New Orleans her home, where she lived for the past 65 years, raising her three sons and later welcoming her daughter in 1963. Her greatest accomplishment was the family she built and the love she gave so freely. Elsa was the true matriarch of her family, the heart of every gathering, the keeper of traditions, and the steady source of strength, wisdom, and unconditional love for generations.

Elsa was proud to be an American and found joy in the simplest and most meaningful things—her family gathered around her table, the aroma of her cooking, the beauty of her plants, the comfort of crocheting, the peace of reading, the excitement of traveling and shopping, and the warmth of music and laughter. She loved to sing even if she couldn’t carry a tune, told unforgettable jokes, and was delighted to watch others dance. Her presence brought comfort, happiness, and light to all who knew her.

She dedicated 37 years of her life to Wembley and Randa Corporation, a place she valued and where she formed lifelong friendships. She began as a necktie cutter and proudly retired as a tie-point inspector, always hardworking, always meticulous, and always grateful for every blessing in her life.

Elsa’s faith was a guiding light throughout her life. She loved God deeply, and her family finds comfort knowing that she was welcomed into Heaven by her beloved husband Pablo, her son Humberto, her grandchildren, her parents, her siblings, and all those who went before her. We find peace knowing she heard the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant,” as she was reunited with those she loved.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Compassus Hospice for their compassionate and dignified care, and to her devoted caregiver Michelle Brignac, whose kindness, patience, and love brought Elsa comfort and peace in her final months. Their support was a true blessing to both Elsa and her family.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, Louisiana, on Saturday, July 11, 2026 from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm. A funeral mass will follow in the chapel at 1:00 pm. Interment will take place at Lake Lawn Park.