Jesus “Jesse” Rodriguez

Born: November 17, 1956 – Called Home: May 17, 2025

Jesus Rodriguez, lovingly known as Jesse, was born in Hidalgo del Parral Chihuahua, Mexico, on November 17, 1956. He later moved to Los Angeles, California, where he began a life filled with faith, love, and joy. He was the beloved son of Carlos Rios and Teresa Rodriguez, and one of seven children Roberto, Isabel, Manuel, Teresa, Patricia and Alfonso.

Jesse, the oldest of seven, immigrated to the USA in 1974 to be with the rest of his siblings. He loved his family and always made them laugh.  Jesse quickly learned English and joined ROTC in high school and later enlisted in the US Army as an 11B (Infantryman) on October 25, 1977 –Oct 24, 1980. Jessen later pursued Bible College and became a missionary. His love for God was instilled in him at a young age by his loving grandmother (Isabel Gonzales Rodriguez) and mother (Teresa Rodriguez), nurturing his faith and love for God and serving other.

Jesse was a skilled machinist at Melgaard Windows and Doors for over 20 years. He was highly experienced in his field and took great pride in his work, earning the respect of his colleagues through his craftsmanship and dedication

On May 17, 2025, Jesse was called home to be with the Lord at the age of 68. A true believer in God, Jesse read his Bible faithfully and dreamed of one day becoming a pastor, eager to share the love of Christ with everyone he met. Despite life’s many challenges, he always wore a smile and radiated peace and hope.

Jesse’s faith and his church were the cornerstones of his life. He was happiest when surrounded by his family and friends, often behind the grill cooking carne asada, laughing, and spreading joy with his infectious smile.

Jesse met and later married the love of his life, Janeth, in 2001, in Tacoma, Washington. A devoted husband and father, Jesse was a true family man, always supportive of every endeavor his wife and children undertook. He raised his stepdaughters, Christina Bowman and Katherine Bailey, as his own, showering them with unconditional love, wisdom, and encouragement.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Janeth; his two stepdaughters, Christine Bowman and Katherine Bailey; his cherished granddaughter, Lauren Duran; and his dear mother, Teresa Rodriguez. He also leaves behind countless family members and friends who were blessed to know him.

Jesse was more than a mentor and friend — he was a light in the lives of many. His sense of humor, boundless kindness, and unwavering faith in Jesus, our Savior, touched everyone he encountered. For 68 years, we were truly blessed by his presence, and he will be deeply missed.

Graveside services will be held June 3, 2025 at 10:30am at Tahoma National Cemetery