Leila Ablang Zamora

Leila Ablang Zamora was born on January 6, 1951, in Santa Lucia, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, to Esteban and Isabela Ablang. She was the sixth of eight children, growing up surrounded by siblings and strong family bonds that shaped her lifelong devotion to loved ones.

After graduating from college, Leila followed her parents and siblings and immigrated to the United States in 1980, beginning a new chapter built on perseverance and care for family.

In 1983, Leila worked in the billing department at the University of Washington, where she met her husband, Carlos Zamora. They married on September 15, 1985, and welcomed two children: Thomas-John in 1986 and Leilani-Jean in 1988. Leila was a devoted mother who raised her children within a close-knit extended family, treating nieces and nephews as her own. Family trips were always inclusive—whether camping at Deception Pass, fishing at Cornet Bay, or traveling to California and Las Vegas. Her warmth extended beyond family, as she lovingly welcomed her children’s friends, many of whom came to call her “Mom.”

Leila expressed her love most often through food. An exceptional cook, she joyfully prepared meals for family gatherings and celebrations, often fulfilling special requests for beloved Filipino dishes such as pancit, pinakbet, afritada, lumpia, and suman. After Carlos passed away in December 2013, Leila continued living with her children. She retired from the University of Washington in March 2017 and later moved into a home in Lynnwood with her daughter Leilani and son-in-law Jon—a place she proudly called her own until her passing.

In her later years, Leila cherished the time she spent bonding with her family. She traveled with her son TJ to California and Las Vegas, enjoying dinners together and visits to Tulalip Casino. With Leilani, she shared a love for football and baseball, attending Seahawks and Mariners games whenever possible. With her son-in-law Jon, she found joy in gardening, especially tending to tomato plants—often sneaking in more despite an already full garden.

Leila will be remembered for her generosity, devotion to family, and the many ways she made everyone around her feel deeply loved.