Leticia Marie Arzola

Born on August 30, 1973, in Houston, Texas, to Robert and Bertha Arzola, Letty grew up in San Antonio and was known throughout her life for her love of family, friends, dogs, history, and helping others. She possessed a unique gift for making people feel seen, valued, and understood, and she carried that gift into every aspect of her life.

Letty attended Holmes High School, Texas A&M University, and Texas A&M University – San Antonio. She dedicated her professional life to education, serving as a teacher at John Jay High School and Stevens High School before becoming a counselor at Stevens High School and helping open Harlan High School.

For Letty, teaching and counseling were never simply professions - they were callings. She believed deeply in the potential of every student and devoted her career to helping young people discover opportunities they may not have seen for themselves. Whether she was teaching history, helping students navigate academic challenges, encouraging them to pursue higher education, or simply offering a listening ear, Letty approached every student with compassion, honesty, and unwavering support.

Students, parents, and colleagues often spoke of her remarkable ability to make others feel accepted and understood. She was a tireless advocate for young people, helping students through personal struggles, celebrating their successes, and encouraging them to believe in themselves. Many former students credited her guidance and encouragement with helping shape their futures, careers, and lives. Years after leaving her office or classroom, they still remembered the kindness, wisdom, and confidence she instilled in them.

One grateful parent wrote that Letty had "captured her daughter's heart" because students could see her heart. That sentiment was echoed countless times throughout her career. To Letty, every student mattered.

Though recognized and admired by many, Letty never measured success by awards or recognition. In her own words, she taught to "make a difference in the life" of her students and believed that she was "the one who was blessed" to be part of their lives. The countless lives she touched became one of her life's greatest joys and proudest accomplishments.

Outside of work, Letty enjoyed music, sports, especially her beloved Texas A&M Aggies, Dallas Cowboys, and San Antonio Spurs—traveling with family and friends, attending the theater, and collecting all things Hello Kitty. She was known for her dry wit, generosity, strength, directness, and fierce devotion to those she loved.

Letty was preceded in death by her grandparents, Daniel and Irene Arzola and Victor and Carlota Garza.

She is survived by her loving parents, Robert and Bertha Arzola; her siblings, Robert Arzola II, Monica Vasquez (Ruben), and Angelica Barr (Walter); her nephew, Vincent Vasquez; her nieces, Caitlin and Sophia Arzola; her cherished furry companions; and countless extended family members, friends, colleagues, former students, and families whose lives were forever touched by her kindness and guidance.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Letty on Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Porter Loring North (2102 North Loop 1604 East, S.A., TX 78232). A Rosary will follow at 6:00 p.m.

A Funeral Mass celebrating her life and faith will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church (1602 Thousand Oaks Drive, S.A. TX 78232). Interment will follow at the Victor Garza Memorial Cemetery in Zuehl, TX. Reception will be held following the Interment Service at Bexar Social Hall.

Letty measured success not by what she achieved for herself, but by the lives she lifted, encouraged, and inspired. Her legacy lives on in the countless students, friends, and family members who are better because she was part of their journey.