Timothy 4: 6-7 “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course. I have kept the faith.” A mover, a shaker, a motivator, and a community leader, Aguinaldo “Nayo” Zamora, 87, drew his last breath on the 25th day of April 2019 in New Braunfels, Texas. He was a visionary man, who didn’t see problems; instead, he came up with solutions. With him, the glass was always half full. Even in the darkest times, he prevailed and created opportunities. He served his country well in the United States Air Force during the Korean War from 1952-1956 prior to making his life in good ole’ New Braunfels. This was his beloved home.
Nayo, left behind his spouse of over 60 years, Cristina Zamora. This woman stood behind and beside him until the end. This endearing couple served the community of New Braunfels over their lifetime giving unwavering commitment. As a former school board member for NBISD, Nayo sought to bring down barriers for all, believed that education was the foundation for success, and he was an example of true community leadership. Dick Robinett, a former NBISD school board President said of Mr. Zamora, “He has given his heart and soul to this school system” (New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung, 21 April 1993). This selfless man served on various boards and leadership roles including LULAC President of Council 155 in 1959. Nayo spoke bravely against injustices even at the risk of experiencing a decline in own business from those against him. While he told his family he was fearful because he was, in fact, just a man, he continued to pursue justice and equality for all.
Nayo came to New Braunfels in the 1950s from a small South Texas town called Penitas, Texas. He was born to Agustin and Rosa Garza Zamora. He had two sisters, Rosalina Young and Ernestina Zamora. He had four brothers: Agustin, Daniel, Hector, and Roberto Zamora. With his wife Cristina, he had five children and four surviving children: Rey Zamora, Sylvia Sanchez, Jimmy Zamora, and Rose Zamora. His son, Johnny Joe Zamora, predeceased him in death. He has 8 surviving grandchildren and 9 surviving great grandchildren. Steven Zamora, his grandson, predeceased him in death. Nayo has numerous nieces and nephews, whom he cared for and loved very deeply.
His mission in life was to have a successful business, to improve the quality of life in New Braunfels, and to be a voice for those who had none. Mission Accomplished, Nayo!! You did well!! May you Rest in Peace surrounded by your loved ones.
Public visitation will begin at 5:00PM Friday, May 3 at Zoeller Funeral Home located at 615 Landa Street with a Rosary to recited at 7:00PM. Visitation will continue on Saturday, beginning at 8:00AM until 9:30AM when the service departs in procession to the church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00AM Saturday, May 4, 2019 at Holy Family Church located at 245 S. Hidalgo Avenue with burial to follow in Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery located at 301 Peace Avenue.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made in memory of Aguinaldo “Nayo” Zamora to New Braunfels Christian Academy at https://www.nbcatx.org/support (Support tab located on their website) to donate online or contact the school’s business office at 830-628-1821.
