Maria del Refugio Rodriguez Herrera

A Long and Beautiful Life

Maria Del Refugio “Cuca” Rodriguez Herrera

12/22/1919 ~ 02-16-2024

When Mom entered this world 104 years ago in Corpus Christi, Texas. It was unimaginable to realize the beautiful impact she would have on so many lives.

Mom was gifted at birth with an amazing energy level, she was a devout Catholic who adhered to the values of her religion, including love and caring for others.

It was her energy and her strong adherence to the teaching of her Catholic faith that enabled mom to accomplish many things and to enjoy much happiness in her long life. It was her inner strength that enabled her to endure many challenging, and even some tragic events.

Some of the happier times they included bringing 7 healthy children into this world and filling their lives with love and guidance. She also witnessed the birth and shared her love with 18 grandchildren, and 30 great-grandchildren. Others who benefited from Mom's love include many nieces, nephews, in-laws, and many friends who loved her from the moment they met.

Just spreading so much love sounds exhausting, but thanks to her remarkable energy, Mom found time to practice Nursing years ago, to help strangers deal with their pain. She also spent many hours sharing her cooking skills with her 5 daughters and 2 sons. 6 of which remain great cooks to this day.

Unfortunately, life sometimes offers pain in addition to pleasure and happiness, once again, it was her strength that enabled her to deal with the loss of 2 brothers in World War II, a beloved husband after 78 years of marriage, and many close family members and friends over the years.

Only days before her death, Mom held the hand of her eldest son, Jamie, and assured him that he was loved as he took his last breath after suffering many months of illness.

Never again will Mom have to experience physical, mental, or emotional pain, we know she will be rewarded by her God who must be proud of the 104 years she spent in this world. We may still be mourning our loss today but let us never forget the long and beautiful gift we were given 104 years ago.

Service: St. Killan Church

March 27, 2024

26872 Estanciero Drive

Mission Viejo CA 92591

Eulogy: 10:20 am

Mass: 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Celebration of Life: immediately following

in the Church Hall

Live feed for the funeral Mass on YouTube channel

Visit our Mother's Memorial website