In Loving Memory
Raymond Rodriguez, Sr.

Raymond Rodriguez, Sr.

9/26/1935  —  5/11/2026


Clayton-Thompson

A Life Remembered

Obituary

Raymond Rodriguez, Sr., a devoted family man, passed away on May 11, 2026, in his beloved hometown of Port Arthur, Texas. Born on September 26, 1935, in Port Arthur, Raymond lived a life characterized by steadfast dedication and devotion to his family, as well as service to his community through the National Guard.

Raymond’s commitment to his work as an operator was marked by a reliable and steady hand, yet it was his love for family and simple pleasures that truly defined his spirit. Those who knew him fondly remember his joy in spending time surrounded by loved ones. He was a man who loved watching old Western movies and had a lively appreciation for music, especially rhythm and blues. (We’re sure B.B. King and Al Green greeted him with a high five at those glorious gates.) Boxing and the vibrant beats of his favorite band, led by his nephew Joe Mendoza and the Shuffle Kings, brought him happiness and a zest for life that inspired all who shared those moments with him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gloria Rodriguez; his parents, Juan and Apolonia Rodriguez; and his siblings, Frank Rodriguez, Maggie Collazo, Cora Ramirez, and Mela Mendoza. Their memories are forever etched in the hearts of those who loved them.

Raymond’s legacy endures in his cherished family. He is survived by his sons, Adam Troy Rodriguez of Port Arthur; Juan Manuel Rodriguez and his wife, Latane, of Port Neches; and Raymond Rodriguez, Jr. of Port Arthur. His daughter, Marina Ann Ramirez, and her husband, Edgar, of Groves, hold dear the values and warmth he instilled. His grandchildren, Mia Baker, Emanuel Ramirez, Edgar Ramirez, Jr., Jordan Rodriguez, Jaida Rodriguez, Lilly Rodriguez, Raymond Rodriguez III, and Austin Rodriguez, carry forward his spirit, as do his great-grandchildren, Isabella Baker and Isaac Baker, who reflect the continuing light of a life well lived.

A visitation will be held on May 13, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Clayton-Thompson Funeral Directors, located at 5200 W. Parkway, Groves, TX 77619. The funeral service will follow on May 14, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the same location, where family, friends, and community members will gather to honor a life well lived and a man dearly loved. A graveside service will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Groves, Texas.

Service Details

Gatherings in remembrance

Visitation

Wednesday, May 13, 2026 · 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Clayton Thompson Funeral Directors - Groves
5200 39th St., Groves, TX 77619

Funeral

Thursday, May 14, 2026 · 2:00 PM

Clayton Thompson Funeral Directors - Groves
5200 39th St., Groves, TX 77619

Graveside

Thursday, May 14, 2026 · 3:30 PM

Greenlawn Memorial Park
3900 Twin City Highway, Groves, TX, 77619

Messages of Love

From family and friends

Virgil (Vilo) Illa May 13, 2026
May the Lord’s peace, comfort and strength be with the family.
Shawn D. Golden May 13, 2026
I have many fond memories from the 1970s and 1980s of Mr. Rodriguez driving his kids and all the neighborhood kids to school. After working an overnight shift, he still had the energy to pile all the neighborhood kids into his all-original red 1965 Chevrolet Impala SS and take us to school. Always smiling, always friendly. In all the years I knew Mr. and Mrs. Rodriguez, I never heard them raise their voices, curse, or speak harshly to children. They welcomed all the neighborhood kids into their home, fed us, made Tang orange juice for us, and if someone fell asleep on the couch or floor, they were always welcome to stay the night. They were a kind and generous family. Families like the Rodriguez family made Groves a special place to grow up in the 70s and 80s. No locked doors, friends taking care of friends, and kindness. I will miss Mr. Rodriguez, and I offer my prayers and condolences to Marina, Chato, Troy, Juan, LaTane, KiKi, and all of the grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
DL Rosas Maldonado May 13, 2026
Deepest condolences to your family. May God grant you comfort and peace 🌷🌷🌷

Provided by

Clayton Thompson Funeral Directors