Thomas Salvador Rodriguez, Sr.

Thomas Salvador Rodriguez, Sr., age 74, a lifelong resident of Galveston, passed away on November 11, 2023 at HCA Houston Healthcare Mainland hospital after a brief illness.

Thomas, affectionately known as "Tommy" by family and friends, was born on March 7, 1949 in Galveston to parents, Arnulfo Rodriguez, Sr. and Fransisca M. Rodriguez.  He attended Galveston schools then enlisted and proudly served in the U.S. Army until he was honorably discharged on April 26, 1972.

Thomas worked a variety of jobs during his lifetime.  He even managed a few local grocery stores, but his favorite job of his career was singing Tejano music and performing with his bandmates at local gigs and private events at several venues on the island throughout the 80s and 90s.  He was the lead vocalist for the bands, Black Tie Express and T.R. & Company.  He later sang lead vocals with the Johnny Sanchez band performing at several local venues, but he especially enjoyed performing on Sundays at Nash's Bait Camp on the East End of the island.

Thomas had a God given gift of a great singing voice and he loved sharing his talent with people.  He was the happiest when he held a microphone in his hand.  He also enjoyed spending time with his brothers, sisters, and other family members during weekend barbecues, birthday parties, the holidays and other family events.  He also enjoyed his quiet time at home with his wife, Kim, just relaxing and watching movies.  He was a loving, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and uncle to his numerous nieces and nephews.  He loved cracking jokes and making people laugh.  His friendly demeanor and witty sense of humor made it easy for him to make friends with anyone.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Arnulfo Rodriguez, Sr. and Fransisca M. Rodriguez Hernandez, brothers, Rosalio (Charlie) Rodriguez, Augustine Rodriguez, Donaciano (Chano) Rodriguez, Richard Rodriguez, Raul Rodriguez, Arnulfo Rodriguez, Jr., sister, Maria Barrientos and brother-in-law, Dan Groh.

Thomas is survived by his wife of 23 years, Kim Pettyjohn Rodriguez, his daughters, Jennifer Rodriguez and husband Jaime, Veronica Trigo and husband Stephen, and son, Thomas Rodriguez, Jr.; his sisters, Socorro Groh and Lorenza Lopez (Rudy), and brother, Daniel Rodriguez (Alice), his sister-in-law, Margaret Rodriguez and brother-in-law, Heraclio Barrientos, Sr.  He also leaves behind to cherish his memory, eight grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and extended family and friends.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Thomas will be laid to rest at Houston National Cemetery in Houston, Texas under the direction of Carnes Funeral Home.  A graveside service with military honors will be held on Thursday, December 7, 2023 at 11:00AM at the cemetery before his interment.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Thomas' memory to the charity of your choice.