Our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother went to our Heavenly Father on October 12, 2023.  She died peacefully surrounded by the people who loved her the most….her family.

Virginia had a brilliant teaching career and touched the lives of hundreds of children in the 33yrs.  She taught at Longfellow Elementary in Albuquerque and Cobre Consolidated Schools.  She loved reading and inspired many children to love reading as well.  Her exemplary work earned her Teacher of the Year in 1998.

She graduated from WNMU in 1969 with a degree in Elementary Education.  She later completed her MAT 1972.  She also continued post graduate studies in Reading at Arizona State University.  Students remember her as a master teacher that could teach a “rock” to read.  She was selected to the Education Hall of Fame at WNMU in 2007.  Her colleagues remember her as committed, devoted, and professional.

She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.   Virginia touched the lives of so many and had such a strong faith that so many admired.  She will be dearly missed.

She is survived by her loving husband Richard Rodriguez of the family home; two daughters, Eliisa M. Maldonado and husband Randy John of Chandler, AZ; Angela Diaz and husband Nelson of Silver City; four grandchildren, Jayden, Elena, Elijah, and Ella; her sister, Susie Torrez and husband Pete of Silver City.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Ramon and Elena Polanco Garcia; her son, Joseph Edward Rodriguez.

The holy rosary will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 17th at 10am at St. Francis Newman Center with Dr. Gilbert Arizaga reciting.  The funeral mass will commence at 11am with Father Bartholomew Ezenwelem officiating.  Concluding service, cremation will take place at Terrazas Crematory.   Pallbearers are Nelson Diaz, Randy Maldonado, Jayden Maldonado, Elijah Diaz, Nick Armijo, and Mikey Torrez.

Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory “Trusted care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777.  To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com .