Jesse (Tobacco) Rodriguez was born in Austin, TX on May 10, 1953, to Patricio and Lupe Rodriguez and passed in his home on January 6th at age 70. He was born and raised in East Austin then spent his formative years living with his youngest daughter, two granddaughters, and grandson, living next door to his middle daughter, son-in-law, granddaughter, and grandson in Del Valle. Jesse retired from the City of Austin in 1999.
Jesse leaves behind his three daughters Lori, Lisa (husband Amos) and Letitia, grandchildren Joseph, Aaron, Jessica, Aariana, Gabriel, and Leilani. Siblings Janie, Hester, and Tomas (Elena), hosts of nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his long-time love Adela Arredondo, parents, brother Robert Rodriguez Sr., and grandson Amos Jr.
More than anything, he was a devoted father and grandfather. He loved spending time with his children, and grandchildren, playing an active role in his nephews/niece’s lives, and making sure everyone was safe. In his spare time, he watched his Westerns and was always ready for a Cowboys and Texas football game. In his early years, he loved playing softball. He enjoyed playing pranks, being a jokester, bike rides in the East side, playing washers/horseshoes, and buggy rides with his youngest granddaughter.
Jesse will always be remembered by his family and friends for his sense of humor and his silly personality. We will still always imagine hearing him say “oh bebe” and can still picture him being the only left-handed player in the outfield catching the ball with his left hand, taking his glove off, and throwing with his left hand again. If you didn’t know, food was his love language and he would offer to take anyone out to eat, pick up food for them, and always wanted his family to cook meals and be together.
Throughout Jesse’s life teachings, he remained optimistic and continued to face all obstacles just as he fought until his last breath, with no fear. We couldn’t have asked for a better father, grandfather, sibling, and friend, and will miss Jesse every day. His memory will live in the hearts of all those who loved him.
The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to Jesse’s daughter Letitia for the endless care she offered to her father in his final moments. We would also like to thank the nurses at Baylor Scott & White Oak Hill, Dr. Rajesh Shah, Dr. Akhil Agarwal, and his special nurse, Vanessa who provided wonderful care, empathy, and compassion.
Serving as Honorary Pallbearers are Amos Castillo, Eddie Loera, Joseph Rodriguez-Aguilera, Aaron Amos Castillo, and Gabriel Anthony Sanchez.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and a Celebration of life beginning at 6:00 p.m., at Mission Funeral Home Serenity Chapel, 6204 S 1st Street, Austin, Texas 78745.
