Manuel B. Rodriguez entered into the arms of our Lord & Savior on Tuesday February 10, 2026 at home in Bertram, Texas,  surrounded by his loving family.  Manuel was born on March 9, 1950, to Elias & Alicia Barrientez Rodriguez in Robstown Texas. One of twelve children, Manuel enjoyed being a part of his large family. Manuel also enjoyed ranching and is a cowboy at heart!  He is remembered by many for his jovial nature and his knack for making others laugh. He also enjoyed playing his guitar, singing and spending time hunting with his family. He loved his family and shared his many talents,  connecting with each member through life stories. Manuel was a huge Elvis Presley fan, expressing that fondness through music, dance moves, singing and even his hairstyle. Widespread family memories of watching western movies and TV shows or Elvis movies with Manuel, or singing and dancing with his brothers to Elvis, will forever bring smiles to everyone’s faces.  Manuel had a charisma and spirit that was friendly and welcoming to everyone. He never met a stranger! People seemed naturally drawn to him wherever he went! Manuel was also a favorite of the ladies for his striking good looks and lightheartedness.  In 1960s a special girl caught Manuel’s eye – Sylvia. They were soon married, and together they raised three beautiful daughters: Manuela Alba (Michael), Irene Villatoro (Freddy), and Viviana Cruz (Pedro). Manuel was also the proud grandfather to Miguel Alba (Rachel), Martin Alba, Marissa Alba, Maxine Alba, Caterina Villatoro, Juliane Leathers (Riley),  Theodore Rodriguez (Diana) Cassandra Estrada (Giovanni),  Santiago Estrada (Makayla), Sierra Estrada, and Great Grandfather to Mariana Rodriguez, Mateo Rodriguez, Valentina Navarro and uncle to many nieces and nephews.  Manuel is survived by his siblings Malecio (Connie) Rodriguez, Reyes Rodriguez, Sara Zuniga, Alicia (Louis)Gonzales, and Pablo Rodriguez.  He is preceded in death by his parents Elias & Alicia Barrientez Rodriguez, and his siblings Lupe Rodriguez, Gregorio Rodriguez, Ramiro Rodriguez, Benito Rodriguez, Elias Rodriguez, and Cruz Rodriguez.  Manuel Rodriguez was a man who had many quotes. One favorite was “Dying ain’t much of a living,  so live life but keep God first!”  Manuel rededicated his life to Christ on Tuesday February 3, 2026. GOD IS FAITHFUL! May he savor the joys of heaven, until we meet again!

Visitation will be held Sunday, February 15, 2026 from 1PM to 9PM in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel.  Funeral Services will be Monday, February 16, 2026 at 2PM in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Manuel Tellez officiating.  Interment will follow in the Loma Alta Cemetery in Kenedy, TX.