Juan "Johnny" Rodriguez

Juan "Johnny" Rodriguez, 86, entered into rest on January 3, 2026, in Harlingen, Texas. Johnny was a proud graduate of Rio Hondo High School, Class of 1959, where he played football for the Rio Hondo Bobcats. He went on to serve his country honorably for six years in the United States Army Reserve. A man of strong work ethic and quiet dedication, Johnny retired as a Foreman from Ballenger Construction Company after 50 years of service. He began his days before sunrise, often up by 4:00 a.m., and returned home after dark—an example of commitment and perseverance that defined his life. Outside of work, Johnny found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved being outdoors, caring for his yard and his trees, and BBQing for his family, creating memories that will be cherished for generations. His granddaughter, Kimberly Montez, captured his spirit best: “He was a man who meant so much to our family and to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His love, selflessness, kindness, wisdom, and presence will forever be a part of us. We are heartbroken, but grateful for the memories and the life he lived.” Johnny is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Manuela Hinojosa Rodriguez of San Benito; one daughter, Annisa Marie Thomas (Sheldon) of Seattle; and one stepdaughter, Sylvia Garza (Eddie) of San Benito. He is also survived by eight grandchildren: Alexandra Thomas, Melissa-Marie Thomas, Johnathan Rodriguez- Thomas, Julianna Rodriguez-Thomas, Clarissa Rodriguez, Monica Garza, Jacob Garza and Kimberly Montez. He is also survived by five great-grandchildren: Tristan Gonzalez, Ramsey Gonzalez, Jacen Rodriguez, Jaina Rodriguez and Ava Montez. He is survived by two brothers, Paulino Rodriguez and Eugenio Rodriguez; and two sisters, Irene Rodriguez and Dora Flores (Ephraim). He was preceded in death by his parents, Jose A. Rodriguez and Reyes Salazar Rodriguez. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Rudy Garza Chapel of Angels in Harlingen, Texas, with a memorial service at 6:00 p.m. officiated by Pastor Kelly Rumfield, followed by a rosary at 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will take place on Friday, January 9, 2026, departing the funeral home at 1:15 p.m. for a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Helen’s Catholic Church in Rio Hondo. Entombment will follow at Mont Meta Memorial Park Cemetery in San Benito, under the auspices of American Legion Post 205 and VFW Post 2410 of Harlingen. Pallbearers will be Tristan Gonzalez, Ramsey Gonzalez, Jacob Garza, Eddie Garza, Alex Flores, and Sheldon Thomas. We want to give special recognition to Ms. Yvette Cano and Treasure Hills Residential Care Homes in Harlingen. We are deeply grateful to all the caregivers who looked after him and ensured he was always well cared for. A special thank you to Patricia and Angela, who treated him with the same love and attention they would give their own family. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Rudy Garza Funeral Home of Harlingen, Texas.

Juan "Johnny" Rodriguez

November 27, 1939 - January 3, 2026

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