Rudolph Sanchez Rodriguez, 75, of Dayton, Texas passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at home surrounded by his loving family. Rudy was born on May 23, 1949, in Houston, Texas to the late Thomas and Adela Rodriguez. He graduated from Milby High School in 1968 and was drafted into the United States Army. He was a field radio mechanic in the 2nd Battalion, 28th Infantry, 2nd Infantry Division in Korea. After serving he attended the University of Houston. He worked as a Chemist/Lab Specialist for Bayer Chemicals for 37 years.
Rudy was a devoted member of St. Joseph the Worker Parish Catholic Church and a proud 12-year liver transplant survivor. He cherished time with family and friends, always making lasting memories. A true animal lover, he adored his chihuahuas—Lady, Cookie, and Brownie—as well as Reese and Tucker.
Known for his generous spirit, Rudy was always ready to lend a helping hand. He loved any excuse to cook and BBQ for gatherings, bringing people together over good food. At Christmas time, everyone requested his famous haystack candy, which he enjoyed making. An avid sports fan, he cheered on the Houston Cougars, Rockets, and Texans. He also found joy in gardening, especially planting peppers to make his signature hot salsa.
Rudy took great pride in his work at Bayer and had a passion for teaching others about chemistry, always encouraging them to further their education. He enjoyed watching his favorite shows—Star Trek, Wonder Woman, and anything on the sci-fi channel. Tending to his property brought him peace, and he loved relaxing in his favorite spot, oldies playing on the radio.
Rudy will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Rudy was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Christopher Rene Lerma, and his siblings, Daniel S. Rodriguez Sr., Rosendo S. Rodriguez, John Rodriguez, Mary Guerrero, and Carmen Regalado.
He leaves behind beloved wife of 50 years, Toni Rodriguez, daughter, Roxane S. Huntley and husband Randy of Dayton; his grandchildren, Blake R. Lerma, Drake R. Lerma, Cameron Lerma, and Christopher Staton. Great-grandchildren, Paislee Grace Lerma and Korbin. Brother, Augustine S. Rodriguez and sister, Eleanor Bunner.
The family would like to thank Harbor Hospice, Sandra, Dee, and Brittany for providing wonderful care to him.
Visitation will be 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Thursday, March 20, 2025 at Sterling-White Funeral Home in Highlands with Rosary at 7:00 p.m. Services for Rudy will be at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 21, 2025 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Dayton. Burial will be at Sterling-White Funeral Home. Pallbearers will be Ryan Kroschel, Steve DelToro, Rodney DelToro, Daniel Rodriguez Jr. Michael Marmolejo, and Joe Rodriguez. Honorary Pallbearers will be Nicholas Kroschel and Joe Rodriguez