Dr. Jose Fernando Zavaleta

In Loving Memory of Dr. Jose Fernando Zavaleta

A Life of Dedication, Compassion, and Integrity

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Dr. Jose Fernando Zavaleta, who peacefully left this world on January 30, 2026, following a short but courageous battle with cancer. A devoted physician, loving family man, and calm soul, Dr. Zavaleta leaves behind a legacy defined by service, compassion, and unwavering integrity.

Dr. Zavaleta was born on September 28, 1938, in Quezaltepeque, El Salvador, to David A. Zavaleta and Maria Teresa Ramirez de Zavaleta. From an early age, he demonstrated a deep curiosity, discipline, and an innate desire to help others—qualities that would guide him toward a life in medicine. He earned his medical degree in 1964 from La Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad de El Salvador and in 1971, he completed his residency in Internal Medicine and fellowship in Endocrinology at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas.

After his medical training, Dr. Zavaleta returned to El Salvador to serve his community and practice medicine in the country he dearly loved. In 1981, life brought him and his family back to Houston, where he worked as an Assistant Professor of Community Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, and eventually he founded The Diabetes Metabolic Center. There, he became a respected leader in endocrinology and diabetes care, known not only for his clinical excellence but for the empathy and humanity he extended to every patient and member of his staff. Throughout his career, Dr. Zavaleta was admired for his innovative thinking, his dedication to lifelong learning, and his commitment to mentoring young medical professionals—but above all, for the kindness with which he treated those entrusted to his care.

While his professional accomplishments were significant, Fernando—affectionately known as Nando to those closest to him—found his greatest joy in his family. In his nightly prayers, he faithfully gave thanks for his beloved wife of 60 years, Maria Zoila; his daughters, Sandra, Kathy, and Claudia; his sons-in-law, Maurizio Taglialatela, Joel McTopy, and Gene Eubanks; and his cherished grandchildren, Anna, Simone, Katherine, Kristina, Jackson, Jacob, and Lily. Fernando also held a deep admiration and special affection for his mother-in-law, Zoila Escobar.

Fernando treasured life’s simple pleasures: lingering family meals, watching his grandchildren participate in their various activities, traveling the world with his wife and friends, capturing candid moments through photography, savoring a good cup of espresso, reading the newspaper, listening to jazz and bossa nova, cheering on his Houston Astros, and seeing faces light up when he would surprise them with a greeting or phrase he had just learned in their native language. His calm presence, sometimes spicy humor, and quiet generosity brought comfort and warmth to every room he entered.

He is survived by his seven siblings: Aida Estela Reina of San Salvador, El Salvador; Roberto Pocasangre of Santa Tecla, El Salvador; Elena de Ortiz of Antiguo Cuscatlán, El Salvador; Ana Cristina de Menendez of Houston, Texas; David Zavaleta of San Salvador, El Salvador; Marta Inez de Colato of Antiguo Cuscatlán, El Salvador; and Mauricio Arturo Zavaleta of Austin, Texas; along with numerous nieces and nephews, dear friends, and devoted caregivers who all surrounded him with love, prayer, and companionship until his final days.

Dr. Zavaleta’s memory will live on in the quiet beauty of a ray of sun, the rhythm of a bossa nova melody, the joy of shared family moments, and in the countless lives he healed and uplifted. As we mourn his passing, we are comforted by the knowledge that we are forever changed for the better because he was a part of our lives. Fernando will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

May he rest in peace.