Emilia Rodriguez Mercado, 90, of Weesatche, Texas, peacefully passed from this life on July 27, 2026, in Portland, Texas.

She was born on June 28, 1936, in San Antonio, Texas, to Marcos Rodriguez and Valvina Ibarra Rodriguez. She married the love of her life, Guadalupe "Lupe" Mercado, in 1979, and together they shared a lifetime of love and devotion.

Emilia and Guadalupe made their home in De Leon beginning in the 1970s before recently relocating to Weesatche. She was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker who lovingly cared for her family. Emilia found joy in gardening, canning, tending to her chickens, and spending time outdoors. She was an exceptional cook who delighted in gathering her large family around the table, always making sure no one left hungry. Her greatest joy was caring for those she loved.

A faithful Catholic, Emilia loved the Lord with all her heart and lived her life guided by her deep faith. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family will be remembered always, and she will be missed beyond measure by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Guadalupe "Lupe" Mercado; her children, Joe Manuel Hernandez, Mary Ann Hernandez, Lucia Hernandez, Nita Rubio and her husband, Ricardo, and Rita Hernandez; 24 grandchildren; 66 great-grandchildren; 27 great-great grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Marcos and Valvina Rodriguez Ibarra; her daughter, Valvina Hernandez; and her brothers, Marcos Rodriguez and Tony Rodriguez.

The Mercado family will receive friends for visitation on Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Nowlin Anders Funeral Home. Rosary will be held at 4:00 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, August 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in De Leon. Interment will follow at Live Oak Cemetery in Dublin.