Melba Rodriguez's Obituary
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Melba Rodriguez, our loving and devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend to many. She passed away in her home surrounded by loved ones on July 9, 2022. She was born on July 19, 1949 in Raymondville, Texas to Jose and
Carlota Castaneda. Melba married her love at first sight, Robert Rodriguez, in January 1975 who preceded her in death in July 2019. Melba knew Robert would be her husband the moment she saw his picture and after being diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic pancreatic cancer her silver lining was that soon she would be reunited with her true love again. She is survived by her two children Timothy Rodriguez and Stephanie Hill; and five grandchildren; Makayla Rodriguez, Shelby Rodriguez-Edwards, Elyana Hill, Mila Rodriguez, and Brian (Cash) Rodriguez; siblings Anita Castaneda, Minerva Pool, Margarita Clark, Danny Castaneda, Javier Castaneda, Jaime Castaneda, David Castaneda, and Gilbert Castaneda. She is preceded in death by her parents Jose and Carlota Castaneda; husband Robert Rodriguez; brother Jose Castaneda.
Melba dedicated over 40 years of her life to students as a bilingual teacher at Fort Worth,
Tatum, and Longview ISD. She touched the lives of many students throughout her time as an
educator and loved her profession even after her retirement. She was the most reliable and
caring person towards the people in her life and would shower everyone with unconditional love
and compassion. She had the greenest thumb and was capable of making any plant flourish in
her presence, never failed to win a scratch off ticket, and was the queen of the game show
network, always solving the puzzles before the actual contestants. We will spend everyday
missing her laugh, smile, and loving heart until we are reunited with her again.
We would like to thank the Tatum Medical Clinic healthcare team for all of their wonderful care
and support. Family and friends are invited to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Longview, TX with
Father Dower at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 14, 2022. Burial to follow at Danville Cemetery in
Kilgore, TX.
What’s your fondest memory of Melba?
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Share a story where Melba's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Melba you’ll never forget.
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