Mary Carmen Rodriguez
August 7, 1931 ~ July 27, 2026
Carmen was born in Tajique, New Mexico, on August 7, 1931, to Pablo and Maria Lesperance and was raised in a devout Catholic family. From an early age, she developed a strong work ethic that guided her throughout her life. She always put God first, placed the needs of others before her own, and lived with humility, generosity and selfless love.On a whim, Carmen and her girlfriends moved to California to see the world and begin a new adventure. There, she met the love of her life, Juan Rodriguez, on a blind date. What began as a chance meeting blossomed into a beautiful marriage that lasted 62 years, filled with unwavering love, deep faith, devotion and the blessing of a wonderful family. Together, Carmen and Juan raised their two daughters, Geraldine Rodriguez and Mariana Rodriguez, with love, strong values and a deep Catholic faith. Throughout the years, their family made homes in Colorado, California, Utah and finally Arizona, where she spent the later years of her life.
No matter where she lived, Carmen became an active and devoted member of her parish community. While she lived in Utah she was a parishioner of St. Rose of Lima in Layton. She generously shared her faith through the Cursillo movement, prayer groups, Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, the parish choir, the Prayer Shawl Ministry, monastery fundraisers, and as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, along with many other parish ministries. 
Her greatest joy and vocation was being a stay-at-home mother, lovingly caring for her family and creating a home filled with unconditional love. Carmen had a wonderful sense of humor and a joyful spirit. Her compassion, generosity and genuine love for people left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
She is lovingly survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Juan Rodriguez; her two beloved daughters Geraldine Rodriguez and Mariana Rodriguez; her loving son-in-law Jose Rodriguez; along with extended family, dear friends, and the countless lives she touched through her faith and service. 
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on August 12, 2026, at San Jose Catholic Church, Albuquerque, New Mexico, followed by burial at Mount Calvary Cemetery, Albuquerque.
We want to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who cared for Mom throughout these last few years. We are especially thankful to Blessing for Seniors, their wonderful staff, and all of the caregivers who gave Mom such loving, compassionate care.