Enriqueta (Leal) Zapata

Enriqueta (Leal) Zapata, 89, a beloved mother and cherished member of her community in George West, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025.

Enriqueta was born on July 15, 1936, in McCoy, Texas, to Epifanio and Marta (Vela) Leal. She married Tomas Zapata on April 1, 1953. She was a member of St. George Catholic Church and she treasured spending time with her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Epifanio and Marta Leal; her husband, Tomas Zapata; her daughters, Adela (Ted) Yunis and Marta (Tudy) Gutierrez; a sister, Consuelo Martinez; and a brother, Faustino Leal Sr.

Enriqueta's life was marked by her unconditional love for her family and her faith. She proudly embraced her role as a loving mother to her children, Gloria (Johnny) Molina of Beeville, Mario (Karen) Zapata of Dallas, Joe (Mary) Zapata of George West, Erasmo “Eddie” (Brenda) Zapata of George West and Thomas (Debra) Zapata of Beeville. Nanny’s legacy continues through her 10 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy. She is also survived by her sister, Flora Ybanez, who mourns her loss alongside her children and extended family.

Visitation will be held from 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday, December 4, 2025, at St. George Catholic Church with a Rosary to be recited at 10 o’clock. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. with Father Pete Elizardo officiating. Burial will follow at the George West Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Joe Zapata, Warren Reyna, Randy Leal, David Leal, Lee Leal and Roland Gaytan.

Christopher Zapata and Cole Zapata will serve as honorary pallbearers.