Maria Elena Rodriguez

Maria E. Rodriguez Torres, 68, a beloved wife, devoted mother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Labor de Rivera, Mexico, Maria was one of eight children raised by immigrant parents. In her teenage years, her family moved to the United States before returning to Mexico, where Maria spent most of her life in Teuchitlán, Jalisco. After the birth of her third child, she and her husband, Adolfo Rodriguez, emigrated to the United States, where she gave birth to their fourth child, the first American-born member of the family.

Maria dedicated her life to her family, embracing her role as a self-employed housekeeper and homemaker with love, pride, and determination. Her unwavering work ethic and resilience in pursuit of a better life for her children earned her deep respect from all who knew her. She took great pride in her work and her home, skillfully balancing the demands of raising four children with her commitment to providing them with every opportunity for a brighter future.

Her passion for life extended beyond her family. Maria was an avid traveler, cherishing the memories made during trips with friends and family, each journey strengthening the bonds she held dear. She also had a deep love for music, often enjoying moments with her husband as he played the guitar, singing along to traditional corridos and banda music during joyous karaoke nights, birthday parties and holiday gatherings. Her warmth, humor, and vibrant spirit lit up any room, and her smile was a constant source of comfort and joy.

Maria's home was a place of love and unity, filled with the scents of homemade food and the sounds of laughter. She was a compassionate listener and a trusted confidante, always ready with a kind word, a warm hug, or a thoughtful piece of advice. Her unwavering support for family and friends, and her commitment to fostering togetherness, reflected her passionate and generous heart.

Throughout her life, Maria formed deep and lasting friendships. Whether with those she met in Mexico or her neighbors and friends in California, Maria kept these relationships alive with her characteristic warmth and care. Her passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew her, but her legacy of kindness, love, and devotion will live on in the lives she touched.

Maria is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Adolfo Rodriguez, and her children: Jesus Rodriguez (Chuy), Jose I. Rodriguez (Yudo), Maria D. Rodriguez, and Jose A. Rodriguez (Coco). She also leaves behind her adored grandchildren: Ignacio Rodriguez, Matthew Rodriguez, David Rodriguez, Melody Marquez and one yet to be born. They will carry her memory with them always, remembering her for her unconditional love, gentle guidance, and the joy she brought into their lives.

Visitation services will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 24, at Reardon Funeral Home, 2636 Sycamore Dr., Simi Valley, CA 93065, with a Rosary beginning at 6:30 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 25, at Reardon Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Assumption Catholic Cemetery, 1380 Fitzgerald Rd., Simi Valley, CA 93065.

Maria’s love and legacy will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched, and her presence will be dearly missed.