Rogerio G. Cortez Jr.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Rogerio G. Cortez Jr., a devoted grandfather, loving father, and cherished husband. Roger, known for his unwavering love and kindness, left this world on World Cancer Day after a courageous battle, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was the proudest grandfather to his greatest joy, Viviana, a devoted father to Valerie, and a beloved husband to Eva. His love for them was boundless, and he never missed a moment to show them how much they meant to him.

Roger had the best humor—his quick wit and infectious laughter could brighten any room. He had a way of making people feel at home, always welcoming others with open arms and a huge heart. Whether it was a family gathering, a backyard BBQ, or a simple conversation, he made everyone feel valued and loved.

Roger was a simple man who enjoyed cheering for his Texas Rangers and Detroit Lions, BBQing for family and friends, keeping his yard pristine, and listening to his favorite music. His passion for the road led him to a lifelong career in trucking. He dedicated 31 years to Blue Bell Creameries, starting in the warehouse before becoming a Route Driver and later a Route Supervisor. He also worked for Labatt and Industrial Lubricants, always providing for his family. A hardworking man, he never shied away from extra jobs in his youth, from Hardee’s to a Christmas tree lot, ensuring his loved ones had everything they needed.

Roger was also a man of deep faith and service. As a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus, he lived by the values of charity, unity, and fraternity. He took pride in giving back to his community, always ready to lend a helping hand and serve those in need. His faith was a guiding light in his life, giving him strength through every challenge he faced.

Even as he battled cancer, Roger embraced life to the fullest, finding joy in nature’s beauty, from the sunrises at the beach to the quiet moments spent with family. While in Houston, he had a deep appreciation for exploring museums and admiring the creativity and stories behind each piece. He found comfort in the simple pleasures of life—sipping his cafecito in the mornings, enjoying an ice-cold Mexican Coke, and taking in the world around him with gratitude. His granddaughter’s soccer games were among his greatest joys, and he made every effort to be there, cheering her on with pride. He was also deeply loved by his extended family through Eva, who adored and embraced him as their own.

Roger is survived by his loving daughter, Valerie (Juan) Paredes, and his beloved granddaughter, Viviana Isabella Paredes; his son, Roger Anthony (Pauline) Cortez, and his grandson Atlas Cortez; his beloved wife, Eva Elisa Cortez, and her daughter, Josey (Reynaldo) Rodriguez, and their son, Matthew Rodriguez; his father, Rogerio Cortez; his sister, Rosa Cortez; and his brother, Robert Cortez. He also leaves behind his nieces, Michelle Lola Skinner and Mia Sara Cortez, and his nephews, Danny and Francisco Skinner, all of whom he loved dearly.

He will be welcomed into Heaven by his mother, Dolores Garcia Cortez; his brother, Rodolfo Cortez; and his beloved grand pup, Scarlett Begonia Paredes.

Pallbearers honoring Roger’s memory will be Juan Ramon Garcia, Danny Skinner, Fred Rodriguez, Carlos Nieto, Pablo Nieto, and Juan Manuel Paredes, Jr. Honorary Pallbearer will be his brother, Robert Cortez.

Roger’s journey was one of strength, resilience, and love. We extend our deepest gratitude to the compassionate teams at MD Anderson, VBMC, and his dedicated home health nurses, whose care and kindness provided comfort during his final days. A special thank you to his Superman, Dr. Jason Willis whose dedication and expertise gave Roger the strength to keep fighting and live his final years to the fullest.

Throughout his illness, one person remained his rock—his loving wife Eva. In his final days, her love never wavered. She cared for him with boundless strength, devotion, and tenderness, ensuring he was never alone in his fight. From his daughter Valerie: Eva, thank you for loving my Dad the way you did. Your care, patience, and unwavering support gave him comfort, peace, and dignity in his hardest moments. You were his safe place, his joy, and his heart. I will forever be grateful for the love you shared and the way you stood by his side until the very end.

A dedicated and ever-present Grampy, he never stopped being a part of Viviana's life, even in his final weeks. She was his light, his greatest joy, and the most precious gift he could have ever received. Their bond was unbreakable, and though he is no longer with us, we take comfort in knowing he will continue to watch over her, guiding and protecting her with the same unconditional love from heaven.

My dad was my everything. Even in his most difficult days, he faced life with incredible strength, love, and determination, never giving up on his fight to be able to see Viviana grow. Though his presence will be deeply missed, his love and the memories he created will live on forever in our hearts.

Rest easy, Daddy. Your fight is over, and your pain is gone. May you find peace in endless sunsets, open roads, the smell of fresh cut grass and endless BBQs.

Services for Rogerio G. Cortez Jr.

Family and friends are invited to honor and celebrate the life of Rogerio G. Cortez Jr. Visitation will be held on Monday, February 10, 2025, from 1:00pm to 9:00 pm at Buck Ashcraft San Benito Funeral Home, with a Remembrance of Memories at 6:00 PM followed by a Rosary at 7:00pm. On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, a final viewing will take place at 8:00 am with a funeral service beginning at 10:00am, followed by a funeral procession at 10:45am. Interment will follow at Mont Meta Memorial Park. Roger will be laid to rest surrounded by the love of his family and friends. We welcome all who knew and loved him to join us in remembering his life, sharing stories, and celebrating the incredible man he was.