Roland M. Blackie Rodriguez

On Wednesday July 27, 2016 Roland "Blackie" Rodriguez left us for the big drag strip in the sky at the age of 77. He was born September 25, 1938 to Joseph M and Gloria F. Rodriguez. He graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1956 and never looked back. Then served his country proudly in the Navy and was on one of the first nuclear subs. Also, owned and drag raced a AA/ fuel dragster under the name Rodriguez Brothers from 1964 to 1970 and was one of the first cars to go over 200mph in Texas.

He was very influential in his family business Rodriguez and Sons Butcher Supply. He was always an entrepreneur. Which eventually lead to starting in the sign business and opening up Custom Plastics in 1970 and continuing his career as a Master Signman up until 2011. This feat shows his dedication to the craft of sign building. He was truly a pioneer and paved the way for others in the sign career. Many of the signs he had the honor of putting up can still be seen to this day. Roland was a family man and always strived to make sure that if he could help out someone in need he would. A lesson he taught to all those that knew him was simple, no matter how many times we fall in life always, always get back up. He was a very hard worker and a no nonsense kind of man. He lived life fast and loved with all his heart.

Roland "Blackie" is preceded in death by his parents Joseph M. Rodriguez and Gloria F. Rodriguez, brothers Joseph E. Rodriguez and Robert O. Rodriguez. Also his wife Aurora G. Rodriguez and son Anthony Rodriguez. He is survived by his sister Gloria E. Greenwalt, Mr.& Mrs. Samuel D. Rodriguez, Mr. & Mrs. George A Rodriguez, and adopted sister Irma F. Reyes. Also his children Arlene, Roland F., Eliza A., granddaughter Ayla A. Rodriguez and numerous nieces and nephews.

He will be greatly missed.

Any flowers can be sent to Porter Loring on McCullough under family name.

Visitation will begin Thursday August 4, 2016 at 4:00 p.m. with a rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m. Funeral service will begin August 5, 2016 10:00 a.m.