Rey M. Zavala

Rey passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family. He was raised Catholic and a believer in Jesus, he is now home with his savior. Rey was born to Joe Zavala and Tules (Maldonado) Zavala in Robstown, Texas. One of fourteen children between them, he learned the ethic of hard work from his parents at an early age—working in the fields while also attending school. Two years after graduating from Longmont High School, Rey enlisted in the United States Army, and spent the next twenty-five years in the military, serving in the infantry where he earned his parachutist badge. He also served in the 1st cavalry, and later as a drill sergeant. Rey worked his way through the ranks, eventually making the rank of sergeant first class, before retiring in 1999. After retiring, Rey’s work ethic remained strong and he worked in a variety of positions, including the Cities of Longmont and Loveland, Auto Zone, and as a correctional officer. Most recently working for American Furniture Warehouse until a few months before his passing.

Rey was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Rosemary, Valentine, and Roy; wife Carma; grandsons Xavier and Francisco; and beloved pet Shitzu, Sally. He is survived by his children, Angelic, Rey, Jr., Bryanna, Anthony, and Majestic; 15 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; girlfriend Donnis Throne; siblings Joe, Jr., John (Lina), Ruben (Virginia), Diane (Eugene), Ramon (Sue), Remigio(Cathy), Mike (Ruthie), Leo (Esmeralda), Sandra (J.C.), Frances (Brian), and half-siblings J.R., Janet, and Rosemary; numerous nieces, and nephews; and his beloved pet Shitzu, Sally 2.0.

A visitation for Rey will be held Tuesday, July 16, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Ahlberg Funeral Chapel, 326 Terry St., Longmont, Colorado 80501. A rosary will occur Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at 6:00 PM, 326 Terry St., Longmont, Colorado 80501. Mass of Christian Burial will occur Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 1:00 PM at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 323 Collyer Street, Longmont, Colorado 80501. A committal service will occur Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Longmont Mountain View Cemetery, 620 11th Avenue, Longmont, Colorado 80501. Army burial honors will be observed.