Manuel V. Rodriguez, 80, a resident of Silver City, entered into eternal rest Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Memorial Medical Center.  He was born November 22, 1943, in Santa Rita, to Erlinda Vasquez Rodriguez and Manuel Flores Rodriguez. 

 He was a retired schoolteacher and proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.  He was a parishioner of the Santa Clara Catholic Church.  He especially loved spending time with his family and friends who called him Tonee. He enjoyed listening to Spanish music, cruising his 1956 Chevy truck, fishing and watching NAS Car Racing.  He lived a full life as a wonderful father, grandfather and friend.  He will be remembered for his bravery, confidence, and generosity.

He is survived by his son, Samuel Rodriguez of Las Cruces; two daughters, Marcella Marquez of Bayard; Erlinda Sierra and husband Willie of Bayard; four grandchildren, Ezekiel Marquez, Christian Maynes, Savannah Sierra, and Kaileena Sierra.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Gilbert Rodriguez, his two sisters, Gloria Duran and Martha Gonzales.

Visitation will be Thursday, December 21st from 5-6pm at Terrazas Funeral Chapels and with the holy rosary to commence at 6pm with Deacon Art Gutierrez reciting.  The funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday, December 22nd at 11:30am at Santa Clara Catholic Church with Father Casmir Anozie officiating.  Concluding services and interment will follow at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full military honors.  Pallbearers are Willie Sierra, Mark Rodriguez Sr., Mark Rodriguez Jr., Matt Romero, Gilbert Rodriguez Jr., Armando Chavez, Edward Vasquez, and Jose Gonzales.  Honorary pallbearers are Ruben Carrasco and Jedi Lino Chavez.

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