Dora Estella Alexander

April 24, 1953 – March 13, 2025

With heavy hearts yet grateful souls, we celebrate the beautiful life of Dora Estella Alexander, who passed away on March 13, 2025, at the age of 71. Born on April 24, 1953, in Lockhart, Texas, Estella was the beloved daughter of Abel Rodriguez Sr. and Lorenza Cisneros-Rodriguez.

Estella had a heart that saw the best in everyone. She was a devoted mother, a trusted friend, and a fierce protector of those she loved. She embraced life with warmth, humor, and an open heart, always making sure no one felt out of place. Whether offering advice, sharing a story, or simply lending a listening ear, she created a space where all felt welcomed and valued.

She was an avid reader, a gifted storyteller, a student of numerology, and a collector of holiday cards, treasuring the simple joys of life. 

Estella was a proud classmate of the Class of 1972, and til this day she has kept in touch with many of her classmates.

Her faith in God and unwavering belief in the goodness of people shaped the way she lived—always with kindness, always with grace.

Estella’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her sons: Ross Alexander and his wife Melissa, along with their children Ireland and Mateus Alexander; Eric Alexander and his wife Jenavie, with their children Trinity and Tyson Alexander, stepchildren: Edward Alexander, Elinda Zoeller, and Ronnie Alexander, along with their families, including step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren, siblings: Brother Adam Rodriguez and his wife Francis; brother Ralph Rodriguez and his wife Ginger, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

She reunites in heaven with her parents, Abel & Lorenza Rodriguez; her husband, Edward Haymon Alexander; her grandson, Tristyn Pharro Alexander; her sisters, Dolores Hernandez and Eva Trejo; her brothers, Abel Rodriguez and Jorge Rodriguez; her nephew, Bert Trejo; and her niece, Jessica Hernandez.

Estella lived a life of service. She cared deeply for her mother, her disabled husband, and her children, always putting the needs of others before her own. Her impact extended beyond her family—mentoring students at Gary Job Corps and LISD, babysitting for those in need, and sharing words of encouragement with both young and old.

Her life was humble, but her riches were immeasurable—her faith in God, the relationships she held dear, and the countless lives she uplifted.

Visitation will be at DeLeon Funeral Home on Thursday, March 27, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. with recitation of the holy rosary at 7:00 p.m. The funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Following services a reception will be at the Presbyterian reception hall. 

For those who wish to honor her memory, you may send flowers or make a donation to her memorial fund: https://gofund.me/48c354e6.

As we say goodbye, we hold onto the joy she brought into our lives. Her laughter, wisdom, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

“A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.” — Maya Angelou

Rest in love, Estella. Your light will never fade.