Aurora R. Powell

Aurora Rodriguez Powell

September 27, 1943 - February 18, 2026

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we remember Aurora Rodriguez Powell, who passed peacefully on February 18, 2026, at the age of 82.

Born on September 27, 1943, in El Paso, Texas, Aurora lived a life guided by faith, service, creativity, laughter, and a profound love for her family and community.

A devoted Catholic, Aurora was a longtime member of St. Augustine Catholic Parish in Dallas. Her faith was the quiet foundation of her life, shaping the way she treated others-with compassion, humility, and an unwavering sense of what was right. She lived her beliefs through kindness, generosity, and a sincere concern for the dignity of every person she encountered.

Aurora was preceded in death by her parents, Edmundo Rodriguez and Ignacia Escajeda Rodriguez; her beloved twin sister, Leonor Rodriguez; and her brothers, Fr. Edmundo Rodriguez, S.J., and Jaime Rodriguez. Though she experienced great loss, Aurora carried it with grace, allowing love and resilience to guide her forward.

Aurora was a devoted mother, an adoring grandmother, a beloved sister, and a caring aunt. Family was at the center of her life, and her greatest joy came from time spent together. Countless family gatherings were made special by her radiant warmth, laughter, and welcoming spirit. She shared a deep and meaningful bond with her daughter and grandchildren, instilling in them the values of love, creativity, compassion, and family unity-gifts that will continue to guide them throughout their lives.

She was known for her inviting presence, keen intellect, and vibrant spirit. Aurora loved to dance and laugh, and her laughter brought light to every room. She enjoyed traveling, found peace in visits to the Dallas Arboretum, and treasured thoughtful conversations that fostered genuine connection. She had a rare gift for making people feel seen, heard, and truly valued.

Aurora's artistic nature flourished in her daily life. She found joy in gardening, cultivating not only beautiful flowers and plants, but also a nurturing and welcoming home environment for those she cared for. Her home was a canvas of her passions-filled with vivid colors, artistry, and life, much like her spirit. She also expressed her imaginative side through stained glass art, designing and creating beautiful stained glass pieces and murals that reflected her love of light, color, and meaning.

Her professional life reflected a deep commitment to fairness, equality, and education. Aurora began her career in public service as a federal agent working in civil rights, standing firmly for justice and human dignity. Later, she followed her calling into education, becoming a bilingual teacher with the Dallas Independent School District. Working with young children brought her great fulfillment, and she took pride in nurturing confidence, curiosity, and hope in her students. She delighted in watching a shy student's eyes light up when they first read aloud in English. Aurora earned her master's degree from Our Lady of the Lake University, reflecting her lifelong love of learning and personal growth.

Aurora is survived by her beloved daughter, Christina Chavez, and her husband, Jorge Chavez; her cherished grandchildren, Jacob and Jason, who brought great joy and pride to her life; her loving sisters, Sr. Elisa Rodriguez, Susana Marquez, Sr. Gloria Rodriguez, and Rebecca Ballon; her loving brother, Guillermo Rodriguez, and his beloved wife, Linda; many nieces and nephews who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts; her husband, David Powell; and his son, John Powell, and wife, Laura.

Aurora's life was a gentle and beautiful reflection of faith, compassion, artistry, and love. She will be remembered for her uplifting spirit, her kindness, and the quiet, meaningful ways she touched the lives of others. Though she is deeply missed, her love lives on-in family gatherings, shared laughter, artistic expression, and in the many hearts she so tenderly shaped. May her gentle spirit rest in the eternal light she so loved to create.

Service Arrangements:

Visitation and Rosary: Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at New Hope Funeral Home Chapel.

Funeral Mass: Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Augustine Catholic Church.

Burial: New Hope Memorial Gardens, Sunnyvale, TX.