Mrs. Bessie Flores Zapata

Bessie Flores Zapata went to be with our Lord and Savior on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas, at the age of 89 with her devoted husband of 71 years and immediate family by her side. She was born on February 16, 1936, in Floresville, Texas, to Vacilia Garza & Ananito Flores.

Bessie dedicated more than 25 years of her life to Southeast Baptist Hospital, where she was a cherished and committed employee. She formed lifelong friendships there and remained close with those friends long after her retirement in 2001. In retirement, nothing brought Bessie greater joy than being around her kids and grandkids-it made her heart full. She also enjoyed cooking and baking for her family and friends. When she prepared a meal or treat for you, it was always so very delicious. You could feel the love that she poured into it.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Bessie’s life was deeply grounded in faith, family, and unconditional love. Her warmth, wisdom, and caring presence will be profoundly missed by everyone fortunate enough to have known her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Vacilia Garza & Ananito Flores; her beloved son, Mario Zapata; her cherished daughter, Cynthia Zapata; her four brothers; and two sisters.

Bessie is survived by her loving husband of 71 years, Alex M. Zapata; son, Michael Zapata (Lauri); daughter, Laura Zapata Caskey; grandchildren, Evan Caskey, Kinzley Caskey, Monica Zapata Rivera (Jaime), Mario Alejandro Zapata (Rae Ann), Gabriela Pecina and Millie Pecina; great-grandchildren, Ezra Israel Rivera, Raelynn Olivia Zapata, Aiden Michael Zapata; goddaughter, Diana Plata Carrasco; and godson, John Jaramillo. She also leaves behind numerous extended family members and friends who will treasure her memory.

The family wants to express our deepest gratitude to all the incredible caregivers and healthcare professionals who cared for Bessie—especially Maria, Roy, Bea and Vita. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Porter Loring Mortuary, located at 1101 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, Texas 78212. A Rosary will follow at 5:00 p.m. at the same location.

A mass will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Holy Name Catholic Church, located at 3814 Nash Blvd, San Antonio, Texas 78223. Interment will follow at Mission Burial Park South.

Bessie’s legacy of love, faith, and family will live in OUR hearts FOREVER.