Ezequiel Rodriguez

Ezequiel "Zeke" Rodriguez was born on June 2, 1936, in Dilley, Texas, and entered eternal rest on December 9, 2024, in Frisco, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ezequiel, and Andrea Perez Rodriguez; his siblings, Joshua Rodriguez, Amalia Rodriguez Zepeda, and Naomi Rodriguez Ortega; and his beloved granddaughter, Jasmine Christine Rodriguez, daughter of Ron and Christine Rodriguez.

On March 6, 2018, Zeke’s heart was forever broken with the passing of his cherished wife, Gloria Guerrero Rodriguez, following her courageous twelve-year battle with cancer. During those years, Zeke lovingly cared for Gloria, demonstrating unwavering devotion until her final moments, holding her hand surrounded by their children and grandchildren. Zeke and Gloria were married on December 21, 1958 and celebrated 60 years of marriage.

Known as "Zeke" to his family and friends, he grew up in humble surroundings in Dilley, Texas. Despite financial hardships, his family was rich in love, laughter, and a strong work ethic. His mother, Andrea, maintained a loving home and prepared delicious meals, while his father, Ezequiel Sr., worked tirelessly on the railroad and as a preacher in the valley area.

As a child, Zeke shared a close bond with his brother, Israel. Together, they played, worked hard, and participated in their local Boy Scout troop. During their teenage years, they labored in the cotton fields, using their earnings to support their family and purchase essentials, such as blue jeans for $1.50.

Zeke attended Dilley High School, where he excelled academically and athletically. He played football for the Dilley Wolves, competed in track, and showcased his talent as a guitarist and beautiful singer by winning the school talent show with his band.

At age fifteen, Zeke faced the challenge of his father’s illness. As the youngest child and the only one remaining at home, he left traditional school to work during the day and attend night classes. When his father passed away, seventeen-year-old Zeke became the sole provider for his mother and himself. Monday through Friday he worked in a lumber yard and on the weekends was in the Marine Reserves.

Zeke graduated from High School on time and then joined the U.S. Air Force, where he served with distinction, finding camaraderie and purpose. His earlier training in the Marine Reserves made basic training feel like a breeze, and his time in the military instilled in him a lifelong sense of discipline and duty. Zeke was a crew chief for various airplanes and during the Vietnam War flew on many missions to rescue the wounded soldiers, load up the soldiers who did not survive and fly them back to the Philippines or Japan. During one of his missions in Vietnam, he was able to have his family live in the Philippines. During this time, he was in Vietnam for 3 weeks of every month and home with his family for 1 week. After his tour of Vietnam was over, he served in Thailand, Japan, and Turkey.

After his honorable service, Zeke pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Social work at Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Tx. During his civilian career he worked at the State Hospital, the State School, and the Good Sam Shelter.

A faithful follower of Jesus Christ, Zeke’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He took great joy in reading his Bible and supporting the Church, finding strength and purpose in his relationship with God. His commitment to his faith guided his actions, relationships, and the compassionate care he provided as a social worker.

Zeke was also known for his remarkable generosity. He consistently supported charities dedicated to helping children and causes close to his faith. His giving spirit stemmed from his deep belief in sharing his blessings and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Zeke is survived by a large and loving family:

• His brother, Israel Rodriguez, and wife, Carmen, of Agoura CA.• His children: Sondra Ford and husband, Landis, of Richardson TX; Ron Rodriguez and wife, Christine, of Frisco TX; Sharon Rodriguez and husband, Scott, of Euless TX; Andrea Rodriguez and husband, Pike, of Oakland CA; Diana Kumar and husband, Ajay, of San Antonio, TX.• Grandchildren: Heather Tucker and husband, Rodney, of Wylie TX; Christopher Ford and wife, Ashley, of Abilene TX; Nicole Ford of Fairview TX; Malcolm Rodriguez of Haslet, Tx. Cayla Rodriguez of Frisco TX; Adam Kumar of San Antonio TX; Benjamin Kumar of San Antonio TX; Simone Schouten of Oakland CA.• Great-grandchildren: Max Salinas, Eli Ford, Finley Ford, Sophia Tucker, Dillon Tucker, and Devon Tucker.Zeke will be remembered for his unwavering faith, resilience, generosity, devotion to his family, and the lives he touched through his professional and personal endeavors.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Sunday, January 12, 2025, at Porter Loring Mortuary.

FUNERAL SERVICEMONDAY, JANUARY 13, 202512:30 PMPORTER LORING MORTUARY1101 MCCULLOUGH AVE, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78212