Rufus U. Rodriguez

Rufus U. Rodriguez, a man whose life was marked by unwavering dedication, loyalty, and love, passed away on May 7, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas. Born on July 3, 1947, in Rosebud, Texas, Rufus lived a life that was not only defined by a remarkable career but also by the enduring relationships and deep sense of community he cultivated over more than five decades.

For 53 years, Rufus owned and operated a beloved barber business that stood as a cornerstone of the community. More than just a place of work, his barber shop was a welcoming space where friendships flourished and customers became like family. Rufus’s commitment to handling matters promptly—living by his guiding principle, “handle it today”—earned him the admiration and trust of all who knew him. His steadfast work ethic and genuine care for people defined both his professional and personal life.

Those closest to Rufus remember him for the calm and steady presence he brought into every room. He was a man of quiet strength, whose peaceful demeanor offered solace and comfort without effort. His daughter Veronica fondly recalls the simple joys of being picked up and dropped off at school, with lunchtime routines that included sharing peanuts poured into a bottle of Coke purchased from a local barber shop vending machine. Beneath his calm exterior, Rufus was rich in heart, humor, wisdom, and faith. A devoted Christian man, he treasured his quiet moments of prayer, which he observed every morning before work and breakfast.

Rufus’s generous spirit and willingness to help others were hallmarks of his character. While he valued his work deeply and took pride in his responsibilities, his connections with customers transcended business; they were friendships rooted in loyalty and mutual respect. Known for his forgiving nature and an honest, often blunt sense of humor, Rufus brought warmth and reliability to everyone around him.

Outside of his professional life, Rufus found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He had a love of music, western films, sports, and leisurely television viewing, often enjoying music from his iPad in the background. Pool was a favored pastime, especially during spirited family reunions where he competed in tournaments with relatives. Rufus had a sweet tooth and could frequently be found enjoying dessert after dinner or snacking on multiple glasses of ice. A loyal reader of Dear Abby and a passionate sports fan, he faithfully cheered for the Texas Rangers and the Dallas Cowboys.

Above all, Rufus’s proudest achievements were rooted in his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest joy came from the loved ones he nurtured and supported. Providing for and keeping his family close was paramount to him, and the love, guidance, and example he set will undoubtedly endure through the generations to come.

Rufus is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Maria Luisa Rodriguez; his eldest son David Alaniz; daughters Veronica Rodriguez, Regina Rodriguez and husband Jason Martinez, Lisa Gonzales and husband Humberto Gonzales, and Aurelia Flores; along with his cherished grandchildren Makayla, Faith, Adriana, Caleb, Isaiah, Joshua, Sasha, Derek, Marissa, Maranda, Matthew, Alex, Nicole Flores, Nicholas, Mercedes, Angelo Gonzales; and sixteen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by five brothers and four sisters, including Simon Rodriguez and wife Diane, Carmel and husband Ray Brady, Inez Hernandez and husband Alex, Tommie Martinez and husband Sid, Janie Ledesma and husband Robert, John Rodriguez and wife Carmen, Jesse Rodriguez, Kirk Rodriguez and wife Anjelica, and Raymond Rodriguez and wife Maria.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas and Crecencia Rodriguez; sister Guadalupe Martinez; brother Pete Rodriguez; and grandson Jonathan Martinez.

Visitation for Rufus U. Rodriguez will be held at Guajardo Funeral Chapels, located at 407 N University Ave, Lubbock, Texas 79415, first on May 12, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., a rosary will begin at 7:00 pm, a second day of visitation will be held on May 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The funeral service will take place at Our Lady Grace Catholic Church, 3111 Erskine Street, Lubbock, Texas 79415, on May 13 at 2:00 p.m., followed by interment at IOOF Cemetery, 1287 County Road 325, Abernathy, Texas, beginning at 3:30 p.m.

Rufus U. Rodriguez will be remembered for his extraordinary love, steadfast loyalty, and a comforting presence that made life easier for those around him. His enduring legacy is one of kindness, faith, and dedication—qualities that will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know and love him.

After finishing up with work every night he’d make that call home to his wife which always started out with:

“Como esta mi esposa”?

Her response: “Bien babe”