Jacqueline B. Roden

Jacqueline Byrd Roden, 89, passed away on March 21, 2026, surrounded by love.

Jacqueline was born on September 13, 1936, in Snyder, Texas, to James Walter “Jack” Byrd and Iva Jean Byrd. She was raised on a farm, where she developed a deep and lifelong love for the land. Her family farmed and ranched livestock, as well as grew a variety of crops throughout the years, instilling in her a strong work ethic and appreciation for a simple, meaningful life. She later moved to Sweetwater, Texas, where she grew up and proudly graduated from high school.

On July 10, 1954, she married James Ray Roden, and together they shared many sweet years filled with love, family, and dedication to one another.

She carried on her daddy’s legacy by continuing in farming and ranching, a calling she held close to her heart for the rest of her life. Her love for the land was truly unmatched and remained a defining part of who she was.

Jacqueline also had a creative spirit and found joy in arts and crafts. She leaves behind many beautiful paintings that her family will forever treasure, each one a reflection of her talent and the love she poured into everything she created. Her talent and dedication were recognized in her community, where she was honored as Artist of the Month.

She was actively involved in her community in Sweetwater and took great pride in her home and surroundings. Among her many accomplishments, she was named “First Lady of BSP,” recognized as “1965 Valentine Girl,” and awarded “Yard of the Week,” reflecting the care and pride she carried in all that she did.

Jacqueline also dedicated many years of her life working for First National Bank of Sweetwater, where she built lasting relationships and was known for her kindness and strong work ethic.

More than anything, Jacqueline cherished her family. She loved watching her children and grandchildren play sports and was their biggest supporter. One of her favorite memories to share-one that never grew old-was of her son, Curtis, hitting a home run at just 10 years old and the joy she felt in that moment. She also looked forward to the Little League World Series every year, finding pure happiness in watching young players enjoy the game she loved so much.

Jacqueline was a woman of deep love, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend whose presence brought comfort and warmth to all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James Walter “Jack” Byrd and Iva Jean Byrd; her sister, Yvonne Nunn; her husband, James Ray Roden, and their infant twins, Richie Lee Roden and Vickie Lynn Roden, who passed shortly after birth.

She is survived by one sister, Mary Lou Crawford and her husband Gerald, of Hermleigh, Texas. She is also survived by her three sons: Curtis Hayden Roden and his wife, Lisa, of Cameron, Texas; Monty Ray Roden and his wife, Michelle, of Abilene, Texas; and Tony Allen Roden and his wife, Cheri, of Sweetwater, Texas.

She is also survived by her grandchildren: Nathan Ray and his wife, Aubrey, of Abilene, Texas; Justin Allen and his wife, Micah, of Abilene, Texas; Tyler James and his wife, Morgan, of Abilene, Texas; Jacob Michael and his wife, Lyric, of Grapevine, Texas; Hayden Chase; and Caitlin Ruth. She was blessed with one great-grandchild, Hudson James.

Jacqueline also cherished her step-grandchildren: Lance Smith and his wife, Kelli, of Carrollton, Texas; Ryan Smith and his wife, Jamie, of Hurst, Texas; Amber Ortega and her husband, Matthew, of Sweetwater, Texas; and Dustin Dakota Thomas and his wife, Heather, of Buckholts, Texas, along with seven step-great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Dunn Cemetery with Rev. Larry Holder officiating. Burial will follow. Arrangements are under the direction of Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, creativity, and cherished memories that will live on through her family and community.

Jacqueline will be deeply missed and forever remembered.