Sylvia Cortez Rodriguez's Obituary
Sylvia Cortez Rodriguez, 74, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas. Born in Harlingen, Texas on June 4, 1951, Sylvia was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister and aunt. She was loved and cherished by everyone who had the good fortune to know her. She will be dearly missed.
Sylvia was a strong-willed woman with a “force of nature” personality who got things done. Her boisterous laugh and high energy made her the life of every gathering and fun to have around. But her greatest attribute was the love and affection she displayed with everyone she met…and she never met a stranger.
Sylvia loved being in the kitchen. She was an avid cook and baker preparing her famous pistachio fruit salad, broccoli casserole and desserts for special events. She had a generous heart and was a very giving person. Her generosity was most displayed during Christmas, birthdays and special celebrations where she provided gifts for everyone. She had many friends and everyone adored her. Sylvia especially treasured the time she spent with her children and grandchildren. She will always be fondly remembered and leaves behind a legacy of warmth, love, devotion and compassion.
Sylvia was an Edgewood High School graduate from the class of 1969. After graduation she joined Southwestern Bell Telephone Co (SWBT) as an operator. After over 30 of service Sylvia retired from SWBT/AT&T as a facility assignment specialist. During her tenure at Bell, she also served as Vice-President in the San Antonio chapter of the Communications Workers of America (CWA).
Sylvia is survived by her children: Amanda (Josh) Cervantes and Noel Rodriguez and her grandchildren Noah, Ayden and Nyiam. She is also survived by her siblings: Gregorio Cortez (Janie), Carlos Cortez and Rolando Cortez.
She was preceded in death by her father, Gregorio Cortez and mother Herminia Cortez.
To honor her vibrant soul, we invite everyone to wear bright, joyful colors. Just as she would have loved.
A Memorial Service will be held for Sylvia on Sunday, January 18, 2026. The family will begin receiving friends from 4:00PM to 8:00PM with a prayer service at 6:00 PM at Castillo Funeral Home, 520 North General McMullen, San Antonio, Texas 78228.
Burial services will take place at First Memorial Cemetery (20567 TX 16, Von Ormy, TX 78073) on Monday January 19, 2026, at 10:00AM. A Celebration of Life will follow at 1600 S General McMullen SATX 78237 12:00-3:00.
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