Jose Suarez Zapata

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jose Suarez Zapata who entered eternal rest on August 19, 2025 at the age of 75. Born on July 26, 1950 in San Antonio,TX, Jose lived a life filled with enriched musical vocal artistry, lots of laughter, love, and cherished memories.

Joe Zapata, a proud native son of San Antonio’s West Side, passed away leaving behind a legacy marked by hard work, deep-rooted community pride, and a voice that resonated across San Antonio and surrounding cities.

A graduate of Lanier High School, Joe carried immense pride in his education and upbringing. His work ethic was unmatched — dedicating 24 years to Levi Strauss & Co. as a trusted packer. Before finding his long-term career with Levi’s, Joe enjoyed a variety of roles that showcased his versatility and people skills: from selling tailored suits, to sharing his love of music in local music stores, and even cultivating his passion for plants while working in a plant nursery department.

Beyond his professional life, Joe Zapata was a beloved figure in the world of mariachi. As the founder and lead vocalist of Mariachi Viva Zapata!, Joe brought joy to countless audiences through his powerful voice and heartfelt performances. His music touched lives not only throughout San Antonio, but also across the great state of Texas. His leadership, talent, and dedication to the art of mariachi made him a respected and admired member of the musical community.

Joe Zapata lived a life rooted in tradition, passion, and pride. His voice, his laughter, and his love for his culture will echo in the hearts of all who knew and heard him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jose Zapata and Maria de Jesus Suarez Zapata; brother, Carlos Zapata. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Teresa Zapata; his beautiful daughters, Monica Zapata (Daniel Mendoza), Melanie Zapata (Ricardo Hernandez III); siblings, Roberto Zapata (Rosemary); Josie Tristan, Esperanza Ramirez, Mary Helen Zapata, Norma J. Hernandez (Johnny Clark), Gilda Narvaiz (John Robert Rodriguez), Oscar Narvaiz (Irene Alvarez) , numerous nieces, nephews and his beloved pets Tony and Gary.

The visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Funeraria Del Angel Trevino, 226 Cupples Rd., San Antonio,TX 78237 with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m.

The procession will depart from the funeral home on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at 11:15 a.m. for a 12:00 p.m. Mass of The Resurrection at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, 1314 Fair Avenue, San Antonio,TX 78223. Interment will follow in Meadowlawn Cemetery, 5611 E. Houston St., San Antonio, TX.