Rolando Estrada, MD

Dr. Rolando Estrada, age 87, of Beaumont, Texas, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas. He was born on November 8, 1938, in Guatemala City, Guatemala, to Lucia Gordillo and Domingo Estrada.

Rolando was known affectionately by several nicknames throughout his life: Shoro—a name lovingly given to him by his grandfather and his cousin Ricardo—Roly by his family, and Sapito by his medical school classmates. He was well-read, deeply cultured, and musically talented. He enjoyed all genres of music, especially classical music and the works of Bach. He cherished and maintained lifelong friendships which spanned decades.

Rolando began his academic journey at the University of San Carlos in Guatemala City, where he completed his medical studies. He later moved to Texas to pursue advanced medical training at Baylor University Medical Center in Houston. He went on to work there for many years, developing deep professional roots before ultimately relocating to Beaumont.

In his youth, Rolando played professional soccer in Guatemala and held a black belt in Karate, demonstrating the discipline and drive that would follow him throughout life. He specialized in dermatopathology and was also board certified in surgical pathology. Passionate about all areas of medicine, he approached his work with commitment, precision, and compassion. A lifelong learner, Rolando built an expansive personal library filled with books on religion, medicine, music, the arts, sports, self-improvement, cars, and countless other topics that fueled his curiosity.

Rolando also believed deeply in service. He volunteered for many years with the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club in both Houston and Beaumont, giving his time generously and quietly helping children and families in his community. His dedication and compassion were recognized when he received the club’s Humanitarian Award.

Dr. Estrada is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Yvette Estrada; his children, Jorge Estrada of California, Diana Sofia Estrada and her husband, Matt Robertson, of Houston, and Mario R. Juan of Beaumont; cousins, Aurora Cruz, Dr. Ricardo Estrada and Dr. Rene Cruz; and nieces and nephews, Maria Eugenia Cruz, Douglas Cruz, and Alain Cruz.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Leonel Estrada; his son, Carlos Wer; and his daughter, María Elena Estrada.

He will be deeply missed by his family and by many dear friends, particularly Marco Antonio Celada and Maria Celada, who held a special place in his life.

We would like to thank and recognize the clergy and staff of St. Jude Catholic Church for their steadfast fellowship and support, with special thanks to Fr. Steve for his care and guidance during this difficult time. Additionally, we are profoundly grateful for our ‘adoptive sons,’ Fr. Valentine and Deacon Paul, who have always gone out of their way to show us love and compassion. We truly love them like family.

The family would also like to give a special thanks to the physicians who lovingly cared for him during his final days; Dr. Jose Ortiz, Dr. Miguel Castellanos, Dr. Rudy Sotolongo, Dr. Orlando Schaening, Dr. Ajith Kuriakose, and Dr. Suresh Indupalli.

A gathering of Dr. Estrada’s family and friends will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., with a Rosary recited at 6:00 p.m., on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026, at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, 6825 Gladys Avenue, Beaumont. His cremation arrangements will be handled through Broussard’s Crematorium.

Memorial contributions may be made to Friends of Guatemala, Inc., P.O. Box 20224, Columbus, Ohio 43220. A nonprofit organization helping the underserved in Guatemala.