Arcadio Rodriguez Jr.

With heavy hearts and fond memories, we announce the passing of Arcadio Rodriguez Jr., affectionately known to many as Archie, who left this world on July 29, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on January 11, 1943, in Monterrey, Mexico, Archie proudly became a United States citizen in May 1961, embracing the country he would go on to serve and call home. Archie graduated from Jefferson Davis High School of Houston in 1961 and attended the University of Houston from 1961 to 1963. In 1963, he joined the United States Air Force, where he served until 1967. Following his military service, Archie began a long and rewarding career with Amoco Oil Refinery in Texas City in 1967, working in Instrumentation and Electrical Maintenance. He dedicated 31 years to the refinery before retiring in 1998. His commitment to workplace safety was recognized with safety awards in 1985 and 1986. Archie was a member of the parish of St. Bernadette Catholic Church in Clear Lake, where he found a connection to his faith and community.
Archie was a determined and driven man who approached life with purpose. He believed in working hard, standing by his values, and helping others when he could. From 1979 through 1986, Archie coached softball teams in the Texas City league, sharing his love of sports and creating lasting memories. He was an avid baseball and football fan and enjoyed watching the Astros whenever he could. Archie had a special appreciation for classic cars, enjoying car shows and using his skills to work on and repair automobiles. Archie also had a tender heart for his beloved dogs, Rita and Foxy Roxy, who brought him companionship and love throughout their lives.
But perhaps Archie’s greatest passion was dancing. An avid dancer from the mid-1950s until the present, he spent decades enjoying the music and movement of dance. He especially loved ballroom styles, including the waltz, cha cha, rumba, tango, foxtrot, and East Coast swing. Week after week, Archie could be found attending dances or teaching different dance styles alongside his dance partner and confidant of more than 20 years, Janet Flannery. Over the years, he held memberships in a variety of dancing clubs. Dancing was more than a hobby for Archie—it was a lifelong passion that brought him joy and countless cherished memories.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arcadio and Edelmira Rodriguez; his brothers, Alfred Rodriguez and Angel Rodriguez; his sister, Yolanda Martinez; and his grandsons, Matthew Gustke and Blaine Ferguson. Archie is survived by his son, Andrew Rodriguez of Austin, Texas, and his daughter, Lisa Gustke of League City, Texas; his significant other, Janet Flannery of Clear Lake, Texas; his grandchildren, Chase Ferguson, Kristen Gustke, and Aaron Gustke; and many other beloved family members and friends.
Archie will be remembered for his determination, strong character, and dedication to the things he loved. His love of dancing, classic cars, sports, and helping others will remain a cherished part of his legacy. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, family and friends are invited to make donations to an organization or charity of their choice in Archie’s memory.
Services
Visitation for Arcadio “Archie” Rodriguez, Jr. will be held on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Carnes Funeral Home in Texas City.
A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, located at 15500 El Camino Real, Houston, Texas. A rosary will begin at 10:00 a.m., with a reception following the Mass.
Interment will take place on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Houston National Cemetery.