Maricela Cordova, 77, of Bay City passed away September 5, 2026. She was born June 17, 1949 in New Gulf, Texas to the late Samuel C. Rodriguez and Emelia Ramirez Rodriguez.

Maricela was a beautician in Bay City for many years. For Mari, cosmetology was not just a job; it was a calling that allowed her to connect with people on a daily basis. Over the years, countless clients became friends, and many remained devoted to her for decades. People sought her not only for her talent and experience but also for the way she made them feel.

Throughout her career, Mari touched the lives of hundreds of individuals. Through her work, she celebrated weddings, graduations, birthdays, and countless milestones alongside her clients. She shared their stories and became an integral part of their lives, just as they became an integral part of hers. Her chair transcended its purpose as a place for beauty services; it became a sanctuary of friendship, laughter, advice, healing, and connection.

Mari, a woman of unwavering confidence, authority, and purpose, carried herself with grace and poise. She was a force to be reckoned with, never afraid to speak her mind and assert her presence. Our cousin, Sharon Ramirez, fondly recalled the last time she saw Mari at Chris’s 75th birthday celebration. Mari was dancing joyfully, exuding an aura of invincibility and vitality. She was a vibrant embodiment of life, fully immersed in the moments that truly mattered. This is how we chose to remember her.

Survivors include her son Randy Cordova; her life partner Jose Balderaz; brother Vidal Rodriguez (Phyllis); grandchildren Jazln M. Cordova and Jazon Cordova; nephews Robert Rodriguez (Kristin) and Samuel Rodriguez (Melissa) and grand niece Zoe Violet Rodriguez.

Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM Friday, September 11, 2026 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A rosary will be recited at 1:30 PM followed by funeral services at 2:00 PM. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be John Ramirez, John “Big” Ramirez, Ronaldo Maldonado, Sam Rodriguez, Ramiro Rodriguez and Ray Rodriguez. Honorary pallbearers will be Jazon Cordova, Johnny Ramirez and Ramiro “Randy” Rodriguez.