Em Be Nguyen

Em Be Nguyen, age 69, of Rockport–Fulton, Texas, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2026, after a period of illness, cradled in the loving hands of his daughter, Linh Odom. In his final moments, he was surrounded by love, comfort, and the presence of family—a reflection of the life he lived and the bonds he created.

Born on November 16, 1956, in Kien Giang, Vietnam, to his parent, Vui Nguyen, Em Nguyen was a man whose life was shaped by sacrifice, strength, and an unbreakable devotion to his family. As a shrimper fisherman, he worked long, grueling days, never complaining, always doing what was necessary to provide. Through his actions—not words—he taught lessons of perseverance, responsibility, and unconditional love.

He was a man people admired and looked up to, not only for his work ethic but for his heart. Em Nguyen had a larger-than-life personality—funny, outgoing, and a natural joker. His laughter was contagious, his humor effortless, and his presence brought warmth and light wherever he went. Even in difficult times, he found ways to make others smile, reminding everyone around him not to take life too seriously.

Above all, he constantly reminded his family and everyone around him to stay humble, to treat every person with respect and equality. He believed no one was above another—that at the end of the day, we are all simply trying to make ends meet and do the best we can with what we have. These words and values were not just advice, but the way he lived his life.

He was a devoted husband to his wife, Nhung Kim Pham, and a deeply loving father to his children: Tiffani Nguyen, Tam Chi Nguyen, and Linh Odom. He was a proud and joyful grandfather to Tyler Nguyen, Dylan Nguyen, Mason Vo, and Kane Odom, whose lives he touched in ways that will last forever. To his family, he was a provider, a protector, a teacher, and a source of endless love.

Em Nguyen is survived by his siblings: Ut Nguyen, Muoi Nguyen, Thu Ba Nguyen, Hien Vang Nguyen, Thanh Liem Nguyen, and Gai Nguyen, along with many nieces and nephews who loved and respected him deeply.

During his final rites, his son, Tam Chi Nguyen, will hold the portrait of his father, symbolizing the carrying of his presence and guiding him on his final journey. His grandson, Kane Anthony Hieu Odom, will serve as the incense bearer, representing the continuation of lineage, honor, and prayers passed from one generation to the next.

Pallbearers for Em Nguyen are Eric Nguyen, Ethan Nguyen, Tommy Tran,Brian Tran, and Josh ha Nguyen, and Alexander Nguyen.

Funeral Services

Services will be held at Charlie Marshall Funeral Home in Rockport with the following schedule:

January 30

• 10:00–11:00 AM – Private family service

• 11:00 AM–8:00 PM – Public visitation

• 2:00 PM – prayer

January 31

• 9:00 AM–8:00 PM – Open to family and public

• 4:00 PM – prayer

• 6:00 pm - eulogy by Linh Odom

• Reception following prayer

February 1

• 10:00 AM–2:00 PM – Ceremony and cremation

Your love, prayers, and memorial donations in honor of Em Nguyen are sincerely appreciated. A donation box will be available on site. Please place your donation inside the envelope and include your name and contact number.

Those we love can never be more than a thought away, for as long as there is a memory they live in our hearts to stay.

Những người chúng ta yêu thương sẽ không bao giờ cách xa chỉ trong một ý nghĩ, vì chừng nào còn ký ức, họ vẫn sống mãi trong tim chúng ta.

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A Daughter’s Final Message

Dad, holding your hand as you took your last breath is something I will carry with me forever. It was the hardest moment of my life, but also the greatest honor—to be there for you the way you were always there for us.

You didn’t always say “I love you,” but you showed it every single day through your actions, your sacrifices, and your humor. You taught us to work hard, stay humble, treat everyone equally, and never think we are better than anyone else. You reminded us that life is hard for everyone and that at the end of the day, we are all just trying to make it—and to do so with kindness and respect.

Your jokes, your laughter, and your outgoing spirit filled every room. Even in your hardest moments, you found ways to make us smile. I will forever cherish our last laughs, our conversations, and the quiet moments we shared at home. Those memories are my greatest gift.

I hope I made you proud, Dad. Thank you for everything you gave us and for loving us in the way only you knew how. Until we meet again, I will carry you with me in everything I do.

I love you always and forever.

— Linh Odom