Mario Luis Rodgers

In Loving Memory of Mario Luis Rodgers

Mario Luis Rodgers, lovingly known as “Bird” to his family and friends, passed away on June 28, 2026, in San Angelo, Texas, at the age of 64. He was born on March 2, 1962, in Eden, Texas, and although life took him to many places over the years, Eden was always home and became his final place of residence.

Mario was preceded in death by his beloved parents, San Juana Rivera and Charlie Rodgers; his bonus mother, Kay Prosise; and his wife, Derinda Rodgers of 45 years, whose passing in 2020 left an immeasurable void in his heart. He was blessed to find love again and is survived by his wife, Sandra Rodgers.

He is also survived by his son, Gabe Rodgers, and his sons, Lee Sanchez, Jaime Sanchez, and Tomas Sanchez. He was preceded in death by his son, Raymie Sanchez. He also leaves behind his five cherished grandchildren: Abigail Gutierrez, Devin Rodgers, Emma Rodgers, Caleb Rodgers, and Andrew Vanckhoven. His grandchildren brought him endless joy, and nothing made him happier than watching them grow and spending time with them.

Mario is survived by his ten siblings: Linda Castanuela (Alejandro Castanuela), Charlie Rodgers(Ida Rodgers), Kathy Gonzales (Emil Gonzales), Martha Sosa (Tony Sosa), Eugene Rodgers (Rosie Rodgers), Johnny Rodgers, Teresa Cano (Ruben Cano), Benny Rodgers, and Elias Rodgers (Teresa Rodgers). He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Shannon Capps and Michael Capps, and was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Steven Capps. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends who will forever treasure the memories they shared with him.

Mario proudly served his country with honor and distinction. He served six years in the United States Army Reserve before enlisting in the United States Air Force, where he completed a distinguished 21-year career before retiring. He loved his country deeply and was proud to have dedicated so much of his life to serving it.

To know Mario was to know someone who could light up any room. He was truly the life of the party, never without a smile stretching from ear to ear. His laughter, kindness, and warm personality drew people to him wherever he went. Above all else, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He worked hard throughout his life and took tremendous pride in providing for his family.

One of the sayings everyone will always remember was, “That’s okay, nobody hurt.” Those simple words reflected the grace, optimism, and calm perspective he carried through life.

Though our hearts are broken by his passing, we find comfort in the countless memories he gave us, the lessons he taught us, and the love he shared so freely. His legacy lives on through his family, his years of faithful military service, and every life he touched with his generosity, humor, and unwavering love.

Bird, you will be deeply missed, forever loved but never forgotten.