Maria Deleon Rodriguez

Dateline: Smithville, Texas With profound sadness and unwavering faith, we celebrate the beautiful life of Maria D. Rodriguez, a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, faithful servant of God, and cherished friend. Maria entered into the presence of the Lord Sunday, July 26, 2026 leaving behind a legacy of love, humility, service, and steadfast faith that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Maria was born October 14, 1951 in Paducah, Texas to Francisco and Patricia (Martinez) Deleon. She is preceded in death by her parents, 1 son Rodney Rodriguez, and 9 siblings. For 60 wonderful years, Maria shared a remarkable marriage with the love of her life, Pastor Esau Rodriguez. Together, they built a life centered on Christ, family, and ministry. For the past 35 years, Pastor Esau has faithfully led the "Family of God" organization, and Maria was his greatest supporter. Whether she was feeling her best or facing illness, she remained faithfully by his side wherever God called him to preach. She understood that ministry was not simply his calling- it was theirs. Their marriage reflected God's love through unwavering commitment, mutual respect, and forgiveness. They never allowed the sun to set on anger. Before closing each day, they would apologize when needed, pray together, and entrust their lives and family to the Lord. Maria and Esau also shared their working lives together as bus drivers for Bastrop BISD. Maria dedicated 28 years to transporting students with disabilities, a role she treasured deeply. She loved every child she served and approached her work with patience, compassion, and a servant's heart. She considered it a blessing to care for the precious lives entrusted to her each day. Acts of service were not only Maria's love language- they were the very way she lived. Her home was a place of warmth, comfort, and hospitality. No one entered her house without being welcomed with open arms and offered something to eat or drink. She found joy in serving others, giving generously without expecting anything in return. Whether family, friends, or strangers, everyone who crossed her path experienced her kindness, generosity, and genuine love. Above all else, Maria treasured her family. She deeply loved her husband, her children, and her grandchildren. Yet nothing brought a brighter smile to her face then her beloved great-grandchildren. They were the delight of her heart, and she cherished every moment spent loving, encouraging, and creating precious memories with them. Maria's life was a testimony of quiet strength, enduring faith, sacrificial love, and selfless service. She demonstrated that greatness is found in serving others, loving unconditionally, and faithfully walking with God each day. Though her absence leaves an immeasurable void, her family finds comfort in knowing that she has head the words every faithful servant longs to hear: "Well done, good and faithful servant." Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched, the family she nurtured, and the faith she so beautifully lived. Maria Rodriguez will be forever loved, deeply missed, and joyfully remembered until the day her family is reunited with her in the presence of the Lord. Survivors: Husband of 60 years: Esau Rodriguez of Bastrop, Texas 1 Daughter: Brenda (Manuel) Mendoza of Smithville, Texas 5 Grandchildren: Manuel Mendoza Jr. of Kyle, Texas, Joseph Wayne (Holly) Rodriguez of Boerne, Texas, Hailey Rodriguez of San Antonio, Texas, Mateo (Brianna) Mendoza of Bastrop, Texas, and Ysabel Mendoza of Smithville, Texas 5 Great-Grandchildren: Julian Mendoza of Oklahoma, Remy Mendoza of Oklahoma, Adelaide Mendoza of Buda, Texas, Miles Rodriguez Boerne, Texas, and Colt Rodriguez of Boerne, Texas 3 Siblings: Elida Mendoza of Buda, Texas, Irma Wilbourn of Bastrop, Texas, and Ramiro Deleon of Bastrop, Texas A visitation will be held Wednesday, July 29, 2026 11AM to 8PM with a prayer service to begin at 5PM at the Monte Olivo Church. A funeral service will be held Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 11AM at the Monte Olivo Church with a burial to immediately follow in the Lebanon Cemetery. Services entrusted to Roberson Funeral Home, Three Rivers, Texas.

Maria Deleon Rodriguez

October 14, 1951 - July 26, 2026